The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has issued an announcement to tighten control over possession of Category A controlled wildlife species. This covers a total of 10 species, with a focus on animal welfare and public safety.
On 12 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, revealed that the department issued a new announcement to upgrade control measures on possession of Category A controlled wildlife species. These animals are either fierce species or have behaviors that may threaten the safety of people's lives and property. The goal is to establish a unified standard for license consideration nationwide and to enhance regulatory effectiveness in line with the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562 (2019).
The classification of controlled wildlife under these measures focuses primarily on Category A controlled wildlife species, which require particularly strict oversight. Currently, this includes 10 species: large carnivores (cheetah, lion, jaguar); large primates (mountain gorilla, gorilla, chimpanzee, bonobo, Sumatran orangutan, Bornean orangutan); and large snakes such as the green anaconda. Category B controlled wildlife, which are less aggressive, remain regulated under the 2022 rules covering 57 species.
The new measures for Category A species are stricter than usual. Officials will conduct thorough inspections of possession sites in all aspects, including the suitability of the environment for the animals' natural behaviors, provision of welfare that allows natural behavior throughout their lifespan, and health care by veterinarians specialized in dangerous animals.
In addition, possessors must obtain consent from the local community and nearby residents to confirm that the location will not negatively impact society. They must also have robust escape prevention measures, life-saving systems, emergency response plans, and highly effective alarm systems.
Regarding legal regulations, possession must comply with other relevant laws such as zoning, public health, and local ordinances. If possession sites fail to meet standards, officials have the authority to order corrections within a specified timeframe. Ignoring this may result in refusal to register possession and possible seizure or confiscation of the animals under the law.
Possessors who have obtained possession registration but violate animal welfare regulations face penalties of up to six months imprisonment, fines up to 50,000 baht, or both. In cases where animals escape captivity due to unforeseen circumstances, officials must be notified immediately within 24 hours to enable prompt incident control. This announcement takes effect immediately to ensure overall public safety.
Thanks to the Facebook page of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.