Rare Birds You Can See in Cambodia: A Guide for Birdwatchers
Cambodia is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to search for some of the world's rarest birds. Its remaining forests, grasslands, wetlands, and protected areas provide important habitat for species that have disappeared or become extremely rare across much of Asia.
For birdwatchers, this means a trip to Cambodia can offer more than a long species list. It can provide the opportunity to see globally threatened birds in their natural habitats, guided by people who know these landscapes and their wildlife.
From the country's national bird, the Giant Ibis, to critically endangered vultures and the spectacular Bengal Florican, Cambodia is home to some remarkable species worth traveling to see.
Why Is Cambodia Important for Rare Birds?
Cambodia still protects large areas of natural habitat compared with many parts of Southeast Asia. The country's Northern Plains, wetlands, grasslands, and evergreen forests support a remarkable range of threatened species.
Several of these birds are now extremely difficult to find elsewhere in their former range.
These species are found in different habitats, so choosing the right destination and having experienced local guides can make a major difference when searching for them.
Cambodia's Rarest Birds
Giant Ibis
The Giant Ibis is Cambodia's national bird and one of the world's rarest ibis species.
Once more widespread across mainland Southeast Asia, the species now survives in very small numbers. Cambodia remains its most important remaining stronghold.
The Northern Plains are one of the best places in the world to search for Giant Ibis, and the species can be seen year-round in Tmat Paeuy.
For birdwatchers, encountering a Giant Ibis in its natural habitat is one of the most memorable experiences Cambodia has to offer.
Best place to see it: Tmat Paeuy
White-shouldered Ibis
The White-shouldered Ibis is another critically endangered species and one of the most sought-after birds in Cambodia.
Northern Cambodia has become an important stronghold for the species. It shares some of the same dry forest landscapes as the Giant Ibis, making the Northern Plains particularly valuable for birdwatchers searching for both species.
Best place to see it: Tmat Paeuy and the Northern Plains
Bengal Florican
The Bengal Florican is one of the world's rarest bustards and is closely associated with Cambodia's remaining natural grasslands.
During the breeding season, males perform spectacular aerial displays that can be an unforgettable sight for birdwatchers and photographers.
Protecting Cambodia's grasslands is therefore essential not only for this remarkable bird but also for the many other species that depend on these open habitats.
Best habitat: Natural grasslands
Cambodia's Critically Endangered Vultures
Cambodia is one of the last strongholds for the White-rumped Vulture, Red-headed Vulture, and Slender-billed Vulture.
Once widespread across Asia, these three critically endangered species have suffered dramatic population declines. Conservation programmes in Cambodia have helped maintain important remaining populations.
Birdwatchers visiting managed vulture feeding sites can have the rare opportunity to observe these three species in the same landscape.
Seeing all three is a particularly memorable experience for serious birders and wildlife photographers.
Best region: Northern Plains
Green Peafowl
The Green Peafowl is one of Southeast Asia's most striking birds and has suffered major declines because of habitat loss and hunting.
Cambodia remains an important country for the species, particularly in protected forest landscapes.
Although Green Peafowl can be difficult to find, patient birdwatchers exploring suitable habitat with experienced guides have an opportunity to encounter this spectacular bird.
Best habitat: Dry forests and protected landscapes
Sarus Crane
The Sarus Crane is the world's tallest flying bird and one of the most impressive species found in Cambodia's wetlands and grasslands.
During the dry season, Sarus Cranes gather in suitable wetland habitats, including Ang Trapeang Thmor, providing excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
Their presence also highlights the importance of protecting Cambodia's remaining wetlands and surrounding agricultural landscapes.
Best place to see it: Ang Trapeang Thmor
Germain's Peacock-Pheasant
The Germain's Peacock-Pheasant is a beautiful and elusive forest bird found in Cambodia and neighbouring parts of mainland Southeast Asia.
It is one of the special birds that can be searched for in the evergreen forests of Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary.
For visitors taking part in the Jahoo experience, the search for forest birds can be combined with the opportunity to encounter Southern Yellow-cheeked Gibbons in their natural habitat.
Plan Your Rare Birdwatching Adventure
From searching for the Giant Ibis in Tmat Paeuy to watching vultures in the Northern Plains or exploring the forests of Keo Seima, Cambodia offers extraordinary opportunities to see rare birds in the wild.
Sam Veasna Conservation Tours has more than two decades of experience leading responsible birdwatching and wildlife experiences across Cambodia. Our local guides know the country's important bird habitats and help visitors make the most of their time in the field.
Whether you're an experienced birder looking for a new lifer or a nature lover hoping to see some of Asia's most remarkable birds, there is a birding experience waiting for you.
Ready to see Cambodia's rare birds for yourself? Explore our birdwatching tours and start planning your next wildlife adventure.
