Asian elephants in Cambodia: a comprehensive national assessment of conservation status, distribution, threats and negative human–elephant interactions

Abstract Balancing the needs of people and wildlife in multi-use landscapes is often hindered by limited socio-ecological information. To guide future conservation and sustainable management planning, this study used a multifaceted approach to assess Asian elephant status, threats, management efficacy, and negative human-elephant interactions (NHEIs) across Cambodia by integrating a literature review, stakeholder data requests, questionnaires, field surveys and multi-stakeholder workshops. Results indicate that elephants predominately occur within protected areas (PAs), although their national range has contracted. Confirmed populations currently exist in 18 PAs, including three where elephants reappeared after over a decade’s absence, while 10 PAs (one degazetted) no longer support populations. We estimate that Cambodia supports between 747–899 wild elephants, and 67 captive individuals. The largest populations occur in the east (mean estimates: Phnom Prich, 185; Srepok, 162; and Keo Seima, 116) and are the most genetically diverse. The next largest population is in the southwest (Cardamoms and Tatai; 45–120 individuals) and exhibited comparatively low mitochondrial diversity. Most remaining populations are small (< 45 individuals) and predominantly isolated, but often data deficient. Snaring, alongside habitat loss and fragmentation, were identified as the current primary threats. However, perceived effectiveness of current conservation interventions varied. NHEIs appeared to be increasing in spatial extent, with 13 PAs and one district outside of PAs recording incidents between 2018 and 2023, and the effectiveness of mitigation measures varied. These findings can be used to prioritise interdisciplinary strategies and research gaps to conserve vulnerable populations while improving the wellbeing of residents impacted by elephants.