PETCHBURI, Thailand – A rare sighting of five young leopards and black panthers in Kaeng Krachan National Park on October 25, 2026, has provided new evidence of the ecological health and biodiversity of Thailand’s World Heritage forest. Kaeng Krachan National Park Chief Mongkol Chaipakdee reported that staff observed the animals between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. near the Khao Sam Yot forest protection unit.
Independent wildlife photographer Natnalee Surapalanan captured photographs and videos of a female black panther and a male leopard, while another black panther and two leopards quickly disappeared into roadside vegetation. Based on preliminary observations of their appearance and behavior, park officials believe the five animals are siblings approximately two to three years old. The photographer has provided the images and videos to park authorities for scientific research. Mongkol explained that the survival of several young predators from the same litter may indicate sufficient prey populations and suitable habitat conditions within the protected forest.
The sighting near a proposed dolomite mining project provides crucial ecological data on wildlife movement and biodiversity in the park’s buffer zones. The records will be added to the park’s camera trap and wildlife sighting database to monitor leopard populations and distribution. Officials also plan to strengthen SMART Patrol operations in nearby vulnerable areas to minimize wildlife disturbance and protect natural habitats. (NNT)
