In the bustling heart of Bangkok, an unlikely celebrity has risen to star status at the city’s beloved Lumphini Park. This new star? A gigantic foam replica of a monitor lizard, now proudly standing watch and offering a perfect snapshot opportunity for tourists and locals alike. A fixture created to celebrate one of Bangkok’s most intriguing inhabitants, this temporary installation has quickly become a must-see.
Sanon Wangsangboon, the Deputy Governor of Bangkok, shared insights into the enthusiasm surrounding the quirky lizard statue with Daily News. The idea came to life in response to the overwhelming curiosity of park visitors who consistently inquire about the whereabouts of these real-life reptilian residents. “Each day, we see between 100 to 200 eager visitors, both Thai and international, yearning for a chance to spot a monitor lizard or capture it on camera. Now, we’ve provided them with a striking landmark to ease their search,” Sanon explained.
The grand lizard figure originally made its debut at Seacon Bangkae’s ‘Guardians of the Garden’ exhibition, held earlier this year, from February 26 to March 9. Following the exhibition’s closure, Seacon graciously decided to donate the foam creations to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. With the warmth of Thai hospitality, the BMA has installed one of these friendly giants at Suan Bueng Lake, just opposite the palm plantation within the lush, verdant surroundings of Lumphini Park.
This massive reptilian effigy is more than just a photogenic marvel; it represents the vibrant yet sometimes overshadowed urban ecology of Bangkok. Sanon enthusiastically noted that the monitor lizard, known locally as ‘hia,’ serves as a key ecological player in the city. Not merely an animal in the park, but rather a pivotal character in the broader environmental narrative that Bangkok champions.
An informative plaque accompanies the foam lizard, educating visitors about the species’ ecological significance and emphasizing its protection under Thailand’s Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019. Hunting, trading, or harming these creatures is prohibited by law, with severe penalties including up to ten years of imprisonment or a fine of one million baht. Despite their menacing appearance, these water monitors are invaluable urban scavengers, adept at managing populations of rodents and carrion. Found across the landscapes of Southeast Asia, they are exceptional swimmers and climbers, and typically keep a low profile unless provoked.
While the statue currently adds charm and novelty, its presence remains temporary, with plans to conclude its stay by mid-May following the BKK Expo scheduled for May 17. Whether this whimsical installation will become a lasting feature of the park is still under consideration, pending discussions and the possibility of private sector backing as reported by Daily News.
In parallel, the city continues its efforts to manage live monitor lizard populations throughout public areas and effectively address sightings within residential neighborhoods, urging visitors to refrain from feeding wildlife, including the famous park-dwelling lizards and pigeons. This practice supports the delicate balance of Bangkok’s ecosystems.
Visitors eager to see this photogenic centerpiece can do so daily, during the park’s extended hours from 4:30 AM to 10 PM. As this larger-than-life foam lizard stands watch, it remains a testament to Bangkok’s unique blend of urban lifestyle and natural wonder, drawing in curious onlookers to its reimagined version of wildlife interaction.
I think this foam lizard is a fantastic idea! It’s a fun way to celebrate wildlife without harming any real animals.
Exactly! Plus, it raises awareness about the local ecosystem.
Yes, and the fact that it’s temporary keeps it interesting.
But isn’t it a bit ridiculous? A foam lizard to substitute for the real thing seems unnecessary.
It’s all in good fun! Sometimes we need quirky attractions to lighten the mood.
Realistically, why should we waste any resources on something as silly as a foam lizard? Let’s focus on real conservation efforts instead.
I see your point, but sometimes art installations open people’s eyes to conservation issues.
Perhaps, but I would argue there are more effective use of funds.
I’m all for it! Anything that brings more tourists to appreciate our parks and learn about our wildlife is a win in my book.
Tourism is fine, but don’t we run the risk of turning our parks into theme parks?
As long as it’s educating people and not overwhelming the natural beauty, I don’t see a problem.
People need to realize the importance of these lizards beyond just a photo op. They play a crucial role in our ecosystem.
I’m just glad it educates people. Those monitor lizards are often misunderstood.
Totally. Most people think they’re just a nuisance when actually they’re super important.
Education is key in transitioning perceptions!
Why stop at foam lizards? Let’s make foam elephants and tigers too while we’re at it.
Haha, might as well create a full foam jungle! Though it wouldn’t be the same without the real thing.
I just hope this doesn’t lead to complacency about real conservation work.
The irony of needing a fake animal to celebrate the real ones should not be lost on anyone.
The park needs more relaxing areas, not gimmicks like a foam lizard. Keep it natural.
I get that, but families with kids might appreciate the whimsical attractions.
I think it’s a great introduction for children to learn about nature and conservation in a fun way.
As long as there’s space left for the real animals, and it doesn’t interfere with their habitat, I’m cool with it.
Same here. Balance is crucial in urban areas.
It’s fascinating to see how urban settings adapt to include wildlife while entertaining tourists.
For sure! If it sparks interest in the park’s real inhabitants, then it’s worth it.
Bangkok should focus on solving real issues like pollution rather than foam statues.
Can’t we tackle both? Awareness and education are part of the solution to bigger issues.
Maybe, but priorities need to be clear. Real action speaks louder.