Khao Kheow Open Zoo revealed a success as the rare white-necked stork, a critically endangered species, has again successfully laid eggs and hatched chicks in the wild.
On 20 May 2026 at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Si Racha district, Chonburi province, Mr. Narongwit Chodchoi, director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, announced a significant achievement in Thailand's wildlife conservation. The rare white-necked stork, listed as critically endangered, has successfully nested, laid eggs, and hatched chicks in the wild once again at Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary. This marks an important step in efforts to sustainably restore wildlife populations to their natural habitats.
This success was the result of cooperation between the Khao Kheow Open Zoo team and conservation agencies who jointly nurtured, cared for, and prepared the white-necked storks in captivity before releasing them back into the wild. This allowed the birds to adapt and live fully in the forest. From the initial close care and nurturing, the storks have now established families in the wild on their own. This achievement reflects hope and success in Thai wildlife conservation efforts, which not only increase the numbers of rare animals but also help maintain the balance of ecosystems and biodiversity in the country.
Mr. Narongwit said this success proves that "efforts are never wasted" and serves as important encouragement for all staff dedicated to continuous conservation work, ensuring that rare wildlife continues to have the chance to fly and survive in the wild.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo will continue its mission to conserve and breed rare wildlife species, alongside raising public awareness about the importance of conserving natural resources, so that forests and biodiversity can be preserved for future generations.