The richness of Hua Hin's nearby nation parks

Recent wildlife sightings in Kaeng Krachan National Park and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park have underscored the ecological importance of these protected areas in Thailand.

Rare Leopard Spotted in Kaeng Krachan Highlights Ecological Importance

On December 18, a rare sighting of a leopard was captured in Kaeng Krachan National Park near Ban Krang. The footage, filmed by photographer Krittipong Ngamjing, shows the healthy leopard moving confidently in the early morning light. Chaiwat Limlikhit-akson, director of the National Parks Department, shared the video on social media, urging visitors to drive cautiously in the park to minimize wildlife disturbances.

Kaeng Krachan National Park, located in Phetchaburi Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and serves as a crucial habitat for endangered species such as leopards. Park officials highlight that such sightings emphasize the importance of adhering to park regulations and reporting any notable wildlife encounters.

Hornbill Nesting Efforts Bear Fruit In another positive development, Kaeng Krachan National Park officials announced the successful use of a restored nesting cavity by a pair of great hornbills. Located in a Tetrameles tree near kilometer marker 6, the cavity was repaired in November by a local group of bird enthusiasts as part of a conservation initiative to support hornbill reproduction. Photographer Saman Khunkhwamdee documented the pair’s nesting activities, with the female hornbill sealing herself inside the cavity to lay eggs while the male provided food. This natural behavior ensures the safety of the eggs and chicks, marking a crucial step in the hornbill’s reproduction process.

Mongkol Chaipakdee, the park’s director, praised the restoration effort, noting that it plays a significant role in supporting the hornbill population. “The restored nesting site has been instrumental in the survival of great hornbills,” he said, highlighting the impact of community involvement in wildlife conservation.

Rare Serow Sighting Underscores Conservation Success at Sam Roi Yot

Rare Serow Spotted at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park On December 11, a serow, a rare and endangered species protected by Thai wildlife laws, was spotted at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Park officials observed the serow, scientifically known as Capricornis sumatraensis, on a limestone mountain during a routine patrol. The serow is well-suited to rugged terrains and is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Phongsathorn Phromkhunthot, the head of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, highlighted the significance of the sighting, noting that it reflects the park’s commitment to conservation. “This sighting reaffirms the ecological value of Khao Sam Roi Yot, which is home to a wide range of ecosystems, from limestone mountains to wetlands,” he said

As Thailand’s first Ramsar Wetland Site, Khao Sam Roi Yot spans over 98,000 rai and is home to more than 300 bird species, along with a diverse array of other wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to follow park guidelines to help preserve its unique environment.

These rare wildlife sightings serve as a reminder of the natural wealth within the nearby national parks and the importance of conservation efforts. Authorities continue to urge visitors to respect park rules, drive cautiously, and report any unusual wildlife activity.

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