From Release to Rebirth: The Story of Gibbons Thriving in Angkor Forest

Gibbons of Angkor: A Rewilding Success Story

In the heart of Cambodia’s lush Angkor Forest, a remarkable story of resilience and rebirth is unfolding. It’s a tale that intertwines conservation, community, and the indomitable spirit of nature—a story that began over a decade ago with two gibbons and has now blossomed into a thriving, multi-generational family.

A Wild Journey Begins

Our journey started in December 2013, when two Pileated gibbons, Saraynick and Baray, were released into the wild as part of our Southern Cardamom rewilding project. These two gibbons were the first of their kind to roam freely in Angkor Forest, a region known not only for its ancient temples but also for its incredible biodiversity. The forest, part of the greater Angkor Archaeological Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, became their new home—a place where they could swing from tree to tree, establish their territory, and begin a family.

Growing a Gibbon Community

Saraynick and Baray quickly adapted to their new environment, and their story took a joyful turn with the birth of their first offspring, Pingpeeang, in September 2014. Little Pingpeeang grew up under the watchful eyes of her parents, learning to navigate the forest canopy and embrace her wild heritage. Over the years, the family continued to grow, with the births of Changeth in July 2017, Kantelong in March 2020, and the latest addition, Kdam, in October 2023.

But the story doesn’t end there. As Pingpeeang matured, she was paired with Bakheng, a male gibbon from Phnom Tamao. The couple embarked on their life together in the wild in 2021, forming a strong bond that reflects the natural behaviors of gibbons. Another pairing occurred between Changreth and a gibbon named A’ping, expanding the interconnected relationships within the gibbon families at Angkor. These connections are not just a testament to the success of our rewilding efforts but also to the resilience of these incredible creatures.

Celebrating the Third Generation

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of the third generation of gibbons in Angkor Forest. In January 2024, Pingpeeang gave birth to Khmum, and in April, Oumal joined the family. These tiny, wide-eyed gibbons represent more than just new life—they are living proof that conservation efforts can restore balance to ecosystems and provide a future for species on the brink of extinction.

The arrival of this third generation is a milestone worth celebrating. It signifies the continued success of our rewilding project and the growing strength of the gibbon population in Angkor Forest. Each birth is a step forward in our mission to protect and preserve these forests, not just for gibbons but for all the wildlife that depends on them.

Rewilding: A Beacon of Hope

The story of Saraynick, Baray, and their descendants shows how dedicated conservation work can turn the tide for endangered species. What began with two gibbons has expanded to include a broader community of wildlife, from langurs to otters, civets, and even leopard cats. These animals, once threatened by habitat loss and human encroachment, are now finding new opportunities to thrive in the wild.

This success story is made possible by the support of people like you, who understand the importance of protecting our planet’s natural heritage. Your contributions allow us to continue our work, ensuring that gibbons and other species have a safe place to call home.

Get Involved: Help Wildlife Thrive

As we celebrate these milestones, our commitment to conservation remains as strong as ever. The work is far from over, but with your help, we can continue to protect and nurture the forests that these gibbons and countless other species rely on. Each step forward, each new generation, brings us closer to a future where wildlife can thrive in their natural habitats.

Visit our website today to learn more about our rewilding efforts and discover how you can get involved. Together, we can ensure that the story of the gibbons of Angkor continues for generations to come.

🐒 SUPPORT OUR REWILDING EFFORTS 🐒

Thank you for standing with us and supporting the wildlife and forests of Angkor.