In the enchanting, dense forests of tambon Song Phi Nong in Tha Sae district, Chumphon, a majestic tiger gracefully crossed the path of a stealthy camera on August 19, 2019. This fleeting moment, immortalized by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, hinted at a larger narrative that was unfolding in the wilderness.
The vigilant eyes of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, known for their relentless pursuit to unravel the mysteries of the animal kingdom, have embarked on an intriguing study. The goal? To track the enigmatic journey of tigers whose footprints have been artfully etched in the soil of Chumphon, creatures thought to travel between the verdant expanses of Thailand and Myanmar with the ease of seasoned wanderers.
The intrepid DNP director-general Athapol Charoenshunsa, spearheading these efforts, found himself pondering over the pugmarks reported by a wildlife sanctuary on a delightful Sunday. This discovery, tantalizing as a fresh clue in a wildlife whodunit, was communicated to him just two days prior, stirring excitement and curiosity amongst his team.
Do these footprints belong to the elusive trio spotted by the vigilant eyes of 24 cameras, partners in a grand investigation led by the DNP and Freeland Foundation across the lush, mysterious Tanao Si mountain range? It’s a canvas where nature paints its stories across the borderlands of Thailand and Myanmar, each tiger distinguished by the mesmerizing barcode-like stripes on their fur.
This captivating case takes a turn as the wilderness detectives ponder: Are these tigers intrepid explorers of the borderland? Do they belong to our directory of fauna, or are they elusive guests from afar? The Wildlife Conservation Office has thus been beckoned to embark on a scholarly expedition, deciphering the travels and tales of these regal beasts, and unveiling whether they indeed form a part of Thailand’s fabled tiger tapestry.
Amidst this unfolding saga, the diligent discovery made its way to the ears of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, the esteemed Pol Gen Phatcharavat Wongsuwan. It was he who decreed that a comprehensive survey be undertaken – a census of the striped sovereigns of the forest.
Armed with smart patrol methodologies and cutting-edge analytical prowess, the wild tiger counts are estimated with renewed optimism. An impressive leap from 130–160 in yesteryear 2020 to a robust 148–189 today paints a promising picture of nature’s resurgence. Over 1,000 camera outposts guard 28 wildlife sanctuaries, keeping a watchful eye on the domain of the tigers.
The bountiful realms of Thungyai Naresuan and Huai Kha Khaeng, lush sanctuaries that cradle the provinces of Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, and Tak, have emerged as vibrant hubs for tiger activity. Estimates suggest that as many as 103–131 tigers call these havens home, a testament to the thriving heartbeat of the country’s wilderness.
This upsurge in tiger numbers is not just a statistic; it’s a jubilant chorus that celebrates the fertility and complexity of Thailand’s forests. It has inspired the government to lay down a bold vision, a blueprint for the preservation of this symbol of pride and power until at least the year 2034 – a commitment to ensure that the roar of the tiger continues to echo through the heart of the wild.
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