Asiatic black bears and sun bears in Virachey National Park, Northeast Cambodia

Abstract

A wildlife camera-trapping survey spanning 5 years, from January 2014 to 2021 in Virachey National Park in Northeast Cambodia, turned up notable records of Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) and sun bears (Helarctos malayanus). Both species are in decline throughout Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia) as a result of illegal logging, agricultural and infrastructure development that encroaches on forest habitat, and a widespread snaring crisis that supplies the illegal wildlife trade. We deployed 44 camera traps in 3 separate survey areas, resulting in 133 independent encounters of sun bears, 44 of black bears, and 2 Ursidae, where the species could not be determined. Despite the threats facing both species, our records show that the Park is an important refuge and further, more widespread and structured surveys are warranted to help identify priority areas for bear conservation.