Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation has initiated plans to establish fresh wildlife reserves in Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi. This step is part of a broader effort to fortify the tiger population within the western forest complex.
These reserves are expected to link Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani with Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi. According to the Bangkok Post, this chain of reserves aims to create an uninterrupted habitat for the tigers.
The director of the wildlife conservation division for conservation area 3 shared that the decision was influenced by data obtained from camera traps in the region. Footage revealed frequent tiger movement between these sanctuaries, suggesting their natural range covers Uthai Thani, Tak, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, and Phetchaburi.
In December, a tiger and her two cubs were spotted in Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi, marking their first sighting in that area. The tigress has been seen moving between Thung Yai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Creating these new reserves isn’t solely about increasing tiger numbers; it’s a strategic move to expand Thailand’s tiger gene pool. Around 22 tigers from neighboring Myanmar have been identified in the area, contributing to a diverse and resilient population.
