Nakhon Ratchasima — An unidentified animal resembling a leopard ran across the M6 Motorway near Lam Takhong. Netizens have speculated it might be a leopard cat, though the director of Korat Zoo says it looks more like a leopard.
At 18:50 on 29 Aug 2026, a Facebook user named Kamthorn Thaipakdee posted dashcam footage in the “M6 Motorway Bang Pa-in - Nakhon Ratchasima” group after spotting an unidentified animal running out from the roadside on the inbound M6 Motorway near Lam Takhong Dam, approximately 2 kilometers from that point.
The clip shows heavy rain limiting visibility. The animal, which appears to have spots like a leopard or wild cat, runs out from the roadside and appears in front of the vehicle, causing the poster to wonder if a collision might have occurred.
After stopping and reviewing the dashcam footage, it was seen the animal had spotted patterns on its body, making it difficult for observers to clearly identify the species.
Following the online release of the clip, many commented and speculated. Some said it might be a leopard cat or leopard, while others suggested it could be another wild animal but not a dog. However, no official confirmation on the animal’s species or its condition after the incident has been made.
Mr. Thanachon Kensing, director of Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, said that while the image is unclear, the spotted pattern suggests it could be a leopard or leopard cat. Since leopard cats are generally about the size of a domestic cat, the larger size seen in the clip likely indicates a leopard.
This incident has drawn attention from M6 Motorway users, especially near forested and mountainous areas, where wild animals may come out to forage or cross roads during rain. Authorities remind drivers to be extra cautious, particularly at night and in heavy rain.