Tourists spot black panthers at Kaeng Krachan National Park (video)

A black panther was spotted by tourists at Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi province, calmly walking along the road to Panoen Thung without showing signs of fear towards vehicles. Mongkol Chaiphakdee, head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, confirmed that a tourist named Amy captured the rare sighting near Kilometre 20 on the way to Panoen Thung.

Amy managed to photograph two black panthers strolling in the area. The big cats did not display any panic or distress at the sight of cars before they eventually retreated into the forest. Mongkol noted that the presence of black panthers and leopards in the vicinity of Panoen Thung is a subject of ongoing research.

Camera traps have been set up around Ban Krang and Panoen Thung since 2013 to monitor the population of these elusive creatures. The research, spanning a decade until 2023, indicates that there are approximately 10 black panthers and leopards in this area.

Finding a black panther in the wild is considered a stroke of luck, as these animals are notoriously difficult to spot, said Mongkol.

“They are not dangerous to humans and usually avoid contact by retreating into the forest if they encounter people.”

Tourists are advised to remain in their vehicles when they see a black panther or leopard, avoid honking or making loud noises, and wait for the animal to move away from the road to ensure safety for both humans and wildlife, reported KhaoSod.

“It’s an incredible experience for visitors to witness such a rare sight. These animals are generally very elusive and seeing them in their natural habitat is a unique opportunity.”

In related news, a black panther sighting near Phanoen Thung in Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan National Park has been reported by the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). The department disseminated photographs of the elusive animal on its Facebook page, sparking interest among wildlife enthusiasts.