Kaeng Krachan National Park (Kaeng Krachan National Park) has discovered the richness of its forest and rare wildlife, while moving forward with monitoring efforts the freshwater crocodile continuously
On 4 June 2026, reporters reported that Kaeng Krachan National Park, together with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Thailand, conducted a mission to survey the upper Phetchaburi River from 26 to 31 May 2025. The purpose was to monitor the population status of the freshwater crocodile, a rare and endangered species in Thailand, alongside collecting biodiversity data of wildlife in this natural World Heritage site.
The survey used a rubber boat to travel along the Phetchaburi River, passing through the rich headwater forest area of Kaeng Krachan National Park. Officials searched for signs of freshwater crocodile habitation and reviewed data from camera traps installed at key points along the river. During the entire fieldwork period, no direct sightings or camera trap images of freshwater crocodiles were recorded.
However, officials found footprints believed to be from freshwater crocodiles at "Sub Chum Hed," located mid-route on the survey path. This is an important indication that the area may serve as habitat for this species. The site near a still water pool offers physical features suitable for hiding and resting, with tranquility and a rich ecosystem. Officials plan to continue monitoring and surveying this area in future missions.
Although no direct freshwater crocodile sightings were made, camera trap data clearly reflected the richness of Kaeng Krachan's forest. Images were captured of ecologically significant wildlife species, including Nadeth (tiger ID ZKKT-002M), gaur, dhole, gaur bear, sun bear, serow, wild elephants, wild boars, smooth-coated otters, large-spined hedgehogs, pig-tailed macaques, long-tailed macaques, and barking deer.
The presence of diverse wildlife, especially apex predators like tigers and other large species, demonstrates the health of the ecosystem and the success of natural resource conservation in Kaeng Krachan National Park.