Environmental workers have released more than 300 reptiles back into the wild in Cambodia after rescuing them from traffickers, it has been reported.

According to US conservation group Wildlife Alliance, the animals included rare species such as yellow-headed temple turtles.

These turtles have particular significance in Cambodia, with the group saying: "In stone carvings on the walls of Angkorian temples, they are depicted as divine creatures of royalty; yet their numbers steadily decrease each year due to habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade."

The rescue took place through the joint efforts of the group and the Cambodian government - which has stepped up its campaigns to stop wild animals being traded illegally.

The statement from the Wildlife Alliance added that cooperation between Cambodia's administration and various environmental organisations was "making significant impacts" on animal trafficking and that "various trade routes and wildlife stockpile locations have been exposed".

Cambodia's lush forests and ample wildlife has seen it become increasingly popular with eco-tourists, many of whom visit the country hoping to catch a glimpse of some of its rare creatures.

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