Tiger dies in Suphan Buri park despite rescue efforts
A tiger, ensnared by a poacher’s trap in Phu Toei National Park, Suphan Buri, has died despite efforts to save it. The animal was discovered on January 8 and treated at Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Breeding Centre, Uthai Thani, until its death on February 3 at around 3pm.
On February 4, specialised veterinarian Pimchanok Songmongkhon, along with wildlife conservation officials, conducted a post-mortem examination.
The tiger was identified as a female, estimated to be over two years old. Some parts of its body were decomposed, with injuries found on its right ankle and paw caused by the trap. A 2-centimetre hole was also noted in the right hind foot.
The autopsy revealed inflammation in multiple systems. There was severe inflammation and necrosis in the right front leg wound, widespread bronchitis, and significant fluid accumulation and inflammation in the pericardium and heart tissues.
The kidneys were swollen and inflamed, including the renal membrane. Additionally, 250 grammes of straw were found in the stomach along with parasites in the digestive tract.
Other organs such as the lungs, spleen, liver, and intestines did not show disease signs but exhibited decay.
Veterinary teams have collected blood samples, tissue, and parasites for laboratory analysis to confirm the cause of death. Preliminary assessments suggest the tiger died from cardiac and renal dysfunction due to inflammation.
The carcass is currently preserved pending destruction under the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department (DNP) guidelines concerning wildlife, animal carcasses, or wildlife-derived products. The head of the Huai Kha Khaeng Station has also registered the incident with the Lan Sak Police Station for record-keeping, reported KhaoSod.
In similar news, for the first time, a tigress and her three cubs have been recorded roaming Kaeng Krachan National Park, confirming that Thailand’s largest wild cats are successfully breeding in the protected forest.
Camera trap footage captured deep in the jungle shows the tigress, identified as KKT-003F, guiding her cubs through their natural habitat. Officials estimate the cubs to be around six months old, marking a significant milestone in Thailand’s tiger conservation efforts.
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