Focus on Arts and Ecology

January 11, 2023 

Deep in the wild wetlands of Cambodia, lives one of the rarest reptiles on Earth. A species so scarce, in fact, that it was once feared extinct.  

The Siamese crocodile.  

These extraordinary creatures are a true reminder of our planet’s ancient past. Whilst crocodilians as we know them today have “only” been around for about 85 million years, crocodiles are still known by many as the living dinosaurs of the world.  

Their scaly skin, powerful form, and uncanny ability to remain practically unchanged as a species for millions upon millions of years - all while maintaining their status at the top of the food chain - have cemented their position as one of the most formidable and remarkable creatures on the planet.  

But, despite its fierce reputation, the Siamese crocodile - elegant, agile and notoriously shy - is far from monstrous. These little-known reptiles tend to actively avoid humans.  

And sadly, they have good reason to.  

Siamese crocodiles have been persecuted for decades - hunted, captured and bred in captivity to supply the international skin trade. Their species has been mercilessly exploited, resulting in a seismic population drop for these remarkable reptiles. At the turn of the century, many feared that they were gone for good.  

But thankfully the story doesn’t end there.  

Because - just over two decades ago - this magnificent species was rediscovered by an FFI-led team, becoming a catalyst for one of our most ambitious projects to date… 

For the last ten years, our team has been working with local partners on a revolutionary captive breeding and release programme, and - just last year - we released 25 Siamese crocodiles (the largest number ever) into the wild in a protected wetland.

This is incredible news, and provides real, tangible hope that we can restore this species to its former status.  

But there may still be as few as 250 adult Siamese crocodiles left in the wild. We must not stop now.  

That’s where you come in.  

With your support, FFI can make a huge difference to the future of this spectacular species. Your donations could help fund our critical breeding programme, as well as safeguarding the remaining wild crocodiles and their wetland habitat.

With the help of people like you, we can save Siamese crocodiles and ensure the survival of this incredible species for generations to come. Thank you.