PHETCHABURI, Thailand – In an exciting development, a rare and near-extinct black panther made an unexpected daylight appearance at Kaeng Krachan National Park, with the sighting offering a glimpse of the park’s thriving ecosystem. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation reported that a black panther was captured in clear daylight photos taken by park officials, highlighting the park’s growing environmental health.
Mongkol Chaipakdee, the head of Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi Province, shared that park ranger Butsakorn Kantuk, working in the Pha Nern Thung area, spotted the panther early Thursday morning near the 20-kilometer mark in the park. The majestic animal moved calmly and appeared unafraid, allowing Butsakorn to quickly capture the moment with his camera.
Mongkol emphasized that the black panther’s behavior indicated a sense of safety in its environment, further suggesting that the forest’s ecosystem is steadily recovering. This sighting is of immense significance to the conservation community, as the black panther is considered an apex predator, maintaining the balance of plant-eating animal populations. The absence of such predators could disrupt the entire ecosystem.
The sighting of the black panther not only excites conservationists but also serves as good news for the Thai public. It is a testament to the country’s efforts in conserving its natural resources and reinforces the importance of Kaeng Krachan’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which demands continued protection and care from all.
