Images of a leopard crossing a road in Kaeng Krachan National Park have been released, showing signs of a thriving ecosystem, according to the park office.
On Thursday, this national park in Phetchaburi released striking images that delighted conservationists and tourists. Captured by wildlife photographer Kittipong Ngamjling, the photos taken in May last year show a leopard gracefully crossing the road near kilometre markers 12–13 en route to the Phanoen Thung area.
The first set of images depicts the leopard walking majestically across the road, its distinctive black rosettes on golden fur visible in detail. Another shot shows it crouching in roadside vegetation, eyes sharp and alert, reflecting its instinctive caution and predatory awareness.
Mongkol Chaiphakdee, head of the park, called the sighting a positive sign, showing the ecosystem there remains rich and intact.
"Leopards are apex predators -- if they can thrive in an area, it means biodiversity is still strong."
The park reaffirmed its commitment to intensive patrols and protection measures, aligned with the national policy of safeguarding forests and wildlife. Efforts include comprehensive patrols and the widespread use of camera traps to monitor species.
Visitors are urged to strictly follow park regulations: avoid loud noises or disturbing wildlife; drive slowly, especially at night and dawn; refrain from feeding animals under any circumstances; dispose of waste properly; and respect wildlife when photographing.
Leopards are listed as a protected species under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act and are classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. In Thailand, they are found only in select forests, making Kaeng Krachan a critical stronghold for wildlife conservation.
