A Biodiversity Haven in the City Center
The grounds of the French Embassy in Phnom Penh are among the largest green spaces in the Cambodian capital. In addition to remarkable botanical heritage, this extensive area is home to unique animal biodiversity, as revealed by a recently conducted zoological inventory.
Zoological Inventory: Key Figures
In 2024-2025, a scientific survey identified nearly 250 animal species within the embassy’s grounds. These observations highlight the site’s ecological richness, despite its urban setting. The French Embassy has just published a booklet about this inventory.
Key Animal Groups Recorded
- Birds: Many passerines, pigeons and doves, and other species attracted by the park’s variety of trees.
- Reptiles: Various lizards and elusive snakes.
- Amphibians: Frogs and toads associated with semi-aquatic environments.
- Small mammals: Mainly rodents and bats.
- Butterflies and insects: A great variety, essential to the pollination of the park’s plants.
Promotion and Awareness The findings were highlighted through the publication of a brochure, “Zoological Strolls,” produced by the Embassy. This brochure features the 250 identified species, providing visitors and the educational community with a better understanding of this exceptional natural heritage. The initiative aims to raise public awareness about the preservation of urban biodiversity. This brochure (in French and Khmer) is available free of charge on the website of the French Embassy, here. Simili Consulting, a leading language service provider in Cambodia, has translated part of the word into Khmer.
The Park in Numbers
| Area | Trees and plants | Recorded fauna |
| 4.5 to 4.7 hectares | 200 trees, >50 species | ≈ 250 animal species |
Conclusion Today, the grounds of the French Embassy in Phnom Penh represent a remarkable refuge for biodiversity in the heart of the city. The zoological inventory conducted in 2024–2025 provides new insights into the local fauna, demonstrating the importance of urban green spaces for nature conservation within city environments.
