Tourists were excited to spot a "goral," a rare endangered wild animal, within the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary in Phatthalung Province.
On 2 Feb 2026 GMT+7, reporters stated that a group of nature trekking tourists visiting the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary in Phatthalung, along the Khao Chet Yod route as part of a 3-day, 2-night program, encountered a fully grown male goral standing proudly near an abandoned waterfall around midday. The location is about 12 km deep into the forest from local villages. The goral, about 1 meter tall and weighing roughly 70 kg, drew great excitement among the tourists since they had never seen one before, and it is notably one of the rare endangered wildlife species.
Mr. Chutipong Polawat, head of the Khao Banthat Wildlife Sanctuary covering Phatthalung, Trang, Satun, and Songkhla provinces, explained that the goral, also known as "Koo Ram," is a protected mammal. It feeds in high mountainous areas and rocky cliffs, consuming plants, leaves, young shoots, and grass. It is a rarely seen wild animal with a naturally wary disposition. He advised that tourists who encounter the goral should maintain distance and be cautious. Although the animal appears non-aggressive, it retains natural wild instincts. Not disturbing the animal helps ensure its safety as well as that of the visitors.
Meanwhile, the period from February to July each year is considered the high season for trekking in Khao Banthat, Phatthalung. The sanctuary opens for nature trekking along routes such as Ban Tra, Khao Chet Yod, Khao Lon Nom Sao, and Khao Lak. Many tourist groups from various provinces across the country visit during this time.