Angkor Wat is alive again - 14th October 2022

Forests around Angkor Wat in Cambodia are full of life again. Hunters used to catch and kill animals here. There were very few gibbons or other animals left in the forest.

But charity Wildlife Alliance is changing this. Director Nick Marx describes their success.

Nick Marx: "We have now released four different pairs of gibbons within the Angkor forest. And they have gone on to breed and now seven babies have been born in the forest in Angkor. So, the project is going very well."

Around the world, gibbon populations are at risk. They're on the list of endangered species. These and many other animals have disappeared from Cambodia's forests. This is because of hunting, farming and cutting down the forests. Poor people also hunt the animals to eat.

But forests around Angkor Wat temple are now a place of safety. The temple's a protected world heritage site and Cambodia's most popular tourist site. It's got extra laws which protect the animals. Wildlife Alliance helped to reintroduce 40 species of animal. It hopes to increase tourism and educate visitors and local people.

Moeurn Sarin's responsible for feeding the gibbons.

Moeurn Sarin: "I am so happy to conserve and feed all of these animals that come and live in Angkor complex. When these animals grow up, young generation can see them and know animals that live in Angkor include gibbons and others."

Marx is pleased that the government's caring for the forest. The forests, temples and wildlife are all connected.

Nick Marx: "Angkor is so beautiful! The forests are well-maintained and protected and well-maintained. -The amazing temples, surrounding the amazing temples - and it's such a cultural important site and it's it's iconic! Gibbons, beautiful charismatic species back into these wonderful temples in this wonderful forest, what more could you ask?"