Thailand’s new reserves to boost tiger population

Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation set plans in motion to create new wildlife reserves in Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi. This move is part of a broader initiative to bolster the tiger population across the western forest complex.

The reserves are anticipated to serve as a link between Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Uthai Thani, and Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi. This chain of reserves will contribute to forming an uninterrupted habitat for the tigers, reports Bangkok Post.

The director of the wildlife conservation division for conservation area 3 revealed that the decision was influenced by data obtained from camera traps in the region.

The footage showed that tigers often traverse between these two sanctuaries, indicating the presence of their natural range in Uthai Thani, Tak, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi and Phetchaburi.

The most recent sighting occurred in December when a tiger and her two cubs were spotted in Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi. This marked the first time that the big cats had been seen in that area. The tigress has been observed moving between Thung Yai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries.

The creation of these new reserves is not just about increasing the number of tigers. It is also a strategic move to expand the genetic pool of tigers in Thailand.

At least 22 tigers from neighbouring Myanmar have been detected in the area, contributing to a diverse and robust population.

In related news, Suvarnabhumi International Airport admitted that its baggage screening officer allowed two foreigners to smuggle animals onto a flight from Bangkok to Taipei. The airport reported it had already suspended the reckless officer after 25 more smuggled animals were discovered onboard the same flight.

The passenger, as well as netizens, questioned authorities at a baggage checkpoint at Suvarnabhumi Airport about how the Chinese passengers and animals managed to evade officials. Read the full story HERE.