In 1998, site managers and scientists discussed the possibility of reintroducing a crocodile population at Bau Sau. This was because the lake was situated in the historical occupation range of the species, and at that time, the habitat quality had been improved and ready for a reintroduction program. Feasibility studies were carried out. The park also held discussions among experts, managers, and authorities at all levels to gain consensus on the program.
In 2000, with the support from international experts, purebred Siamese Crocodiles, which are believed to have provenance from Cat Tien area, were selected from a farm in Ho Chi Minh City, to training for restoring their natural behaviours. From 2001 to 2005, a total of 60 adults were released into Bau Sau. In September 2005, the first baby crocodiles were recorded.
Recent monitoring shows that the number of individuals is increasing, the distribution area is also expanding with records in some neighbouring lakes. As of 2019, monitoring data has recorded at least 286 individuals (including 228 juveniles). Up to now, it can be confirmed that freshwater crocodile populations have been successfully re-established in Cat Tien National Park. The number and structure of the recorded population ensures that this is a healthy and viable population.
- Natural habitats of Crocodiles in Cat Tien National Park (Bau Sau and surrounding wetlands) are well protected and restored, prey populations are well maintained to facilitate the reintroduction.
- Source of breeds in the crocodile farms meet requirements in terms of genetics and epidemiology.
- There is enough scientific basis for a population reintroduction program.
- Supports from governments and international community helped the National Park managers have enough determination in re-establishing a Siamese Crocodile population.
The success of re-establishment of a Siamese Crocodile population in Cat Tien National Park is the result of a joint effort of Vietnam and the international conservation community. This is a good lesson for future re-wilding efforts. Local political determination (local governments and site leaders) plays an important role in creating the necessary conditions for population re-establishment.
Important elements for this success include: i) available breeding stock for re-wilding, ii) safe habitats with sufficient prey sources, and iii) proper awareness on animal-human conflict for to ensure the compatible behaviours for long-term survival of the re-established population.
To date, the freshwater crocodile re-establishment programme at Bau Sau was recognized as the first successful crocodile reintroduction effort in the world, and it therefore can provide experience for other population re-establishment projects in future.