That's a welcome achievement because, as anyone familiar with the region knows, taking the kids to the zoo in Asia can be harrowing.
Tiny, poorly kept cages, pacing, under-stimulated animals, a general culture of animals as entertainment which can result in sticks being poked at rare and shy creatures - all these have given Asian zoos a bad reputation.
Indeed, a private Cambodian zoo in the Thai border province of Koh Kong has earned scathing comments from Lonely Planet for staging shows which it said would be banned in other countries, including men sticking their heads in crocodiles' mouths and orangutans being forced to don boxing gloves and slug it out in a ring.
However just outside of Phnom Penh lies one of the most impressive zoos in the region in Phnom Tamao, also known as Tahkmao Zoo.
Officially inaugurated in the year 2000, this 1,200 hectare zoo and wildlife rescue centre is located just 30 kilometers southeast of the capital in Takeo province and the participation of several of the largest wildlife aid organizations active in the country ensures this is a model facility.
The zoo itself covers 80 hectares, with the remainder reserved for future extension and development, and most animals enjoy huge enclosures tailored for their comfort and not the viewing pleasure of humans.
Great Conservation Message for the Kids
The facility is responsible for rescuing and rehabilitating literally hundreds of animals, whether from poachers, the illegal pet trade or simply rescued injured out in the wilderness.
Without a bike or a vehicle getting around this sprawling zoo is virtually impossible.
The best part for the kids, however, is right at the entrance, where tame deer wander freely alongside various water birds, sauntering up to visitors in an attempt to nuzzle a gift of sugar cane or peanuts.
Bold monkeys swing from the trees, also with free food on their minds.
Set up to preserve and rescue rare and endangered local wildlife, rare species in residence at Phnom Tamao are mainly native and include tigers, leopards, the only hairy-nosed otter in captivity in the world, deer, bears, elephants, monkeys, gibbons and exotic birds.
At least two dozen of the species found here are endangered.
Environmentally Friendly Enclosures
The tiger enclosure is typical – thickly forested and extensive, encompassing a rocky hill for the animals to climb. Elephants are the only creatures that turn on a show here, indulging in painting exhibitions which they appear to love.
The bear enclosure allows visitors to watch these playful animals frolic in an extensive area fit for such large mammals.
When the kids need a break from touring the enclosures, there are plenty of picnic areas to stop at which offer the usual Cambodian fare – whole barbequed chickens and fish, stir fried vegetable dishes and a range of beer and soft drinks.
Entrance to Phnom Tamao is free for Khmers and costs around 5USD for entry otherwise (the fee is dependent on the type of vehicle and number of foreigners) and makes a relaxing family daytrip from the capital.
It also provides a valuable lesson in conservation and is a wonderful place to get acquainted with the wildlife of Cambodia. And the zoo gladly accepts donations from visitors to help it keep up the good work.
Bronwyn Sloan - Bronwyn Sloan is a freelance journalist with more than 20 years journalism experience in Australia and Southeast Asia who has spent the ...
