Developed with Save Vietnam’s Wildlife, the Cuc Phuong Rewilding Action Plan 2026 to 2035, with a vision to 2050, seeks to turn the park into a natural gene bank supplying wildlife to other protected areas.

“The ultimate objective is to return wildlife to their rightful habitats so they can perform their ecological functions,” said park director Nguyen Van Chinh.

The plan focuses on four pillars: scientific research and habitat restoration, priority species reintroductions, post release monitoring, and a One Health approach linking ecosystem, animal and human health to reduce zoonotic disease risks.

Rewilding efforts will extend beyond the park’s 22,400 hectares to an interprovincial corridor linking Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa and Phu Tho, covering more than 50,000 hectares to strengthen habitat and genetic connectivity.

A flagship initiative, Cuc Phuong Snare Free, aims to remove more than 95 per cent of cable snares in release areas before animals are reintroduced, supported by increased patrols and monitoring.

Local communities will play a central role, taking part in patrols and conservation activities while benefiting from sustainable livelihoods such as ecotourism. Pilot schemes will also test results based payments to share conservation benefits with residents.

Nguyen Van Thai, director of Save Vietnam’s Wildlife, said partnerships between non governmental organisations and national parks are critical, pledging continued financial and technical support aligned with International Union for Conservation of Nature standards.

Doan Hoai Nam of the Department of Forestry and Forest Protection praised the initiative and said authorities would continue supporting rescue, conservation and rewilding efforts, alongside issuing technical guidelines to improve implementation.