A rare marbled cat, classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been sighted in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi province. The discovery was made during a routine patrol by park officials near the 12-kilometer marker on one of the park’s roads, according to Mongkol Chaipakdee, the park’s chief.
The marbled cat, known scientifically as Pardofelis marmorata, holds a place as the 12th protected wild animal on Thailand’s conservation list. Its presence in the national park highlights the park’s rich biodiversity and underlines its role as a critical habitat for wildlife in the region.
Kaeng Krachan National Park is part of the expansive Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. This area is home to a wide range of species, including several endangered animals, reinforcing its importance for conservation efforts within Thailand.
In response to this rare sighting, park officials have called on the public to actively support conservation initiatives aimed at preserving the unique environment and diverse wildlife. The protection of Kaeng Krachan and its inhabitants, like the marbled cat, remains essential for sustaining the park’s ecological integrity and ensuring the survival of Thailand’s vulnerable species.
A number of officials, including Mongkol Chaipakdee, and other key park personnel, have been involved in ongoing conservation efforts, which are crucial for the future of the national park and its wildlife.
