The following is written by Lek Chailert a founder of CWS and Save Elephant Foundation. It shows the on going battle here in Cambodia to protect the environment and animals. While the situation at CWS is better today than yesterday, there will be a lot of rebuilding to be done.

The forest fires have been many days burning in Cambodia, destroying many acres of forest and habitat for the wild animal. Our staff at Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary work hard to protect the area, making the fire break, but the wind proved a greater adversary and the fire jumped across, and still the fire carries on. This morning the fire reached our animal area . Our staff, local villagers and forest rangers tried to stop it but it was very difficult and dangerous. We decided to take the animals away from the area and bring to a safe place . We lost the elephant shelter and some equipment , but all animals and staff are safe. The fire has not abated and the wind is still a challenge and threat. Others are now on the way to help . I feel so sad for the wildlife, the nesting birds, and all beings who are still too young to escape the fury of the grass fire.

This forest fire started from miles away intentionally set by human and not a natural fire . It is so sad that we have lost some of our beautiful forest and many precious lives . When will humans stop their selfishness and greed, and begin to respond and care for the others living.

Photo Credit to Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary.