Authorities have confirmed that a privately owned male lion being kept at a house in Rayong is legally registered, but have ordered the owner to strengthen safety measures and improve noise control following complaints from local residents.
Get today's headlines by email 
The complaints came from residents in Village 3, Thepphak Community, Phe subdistrict, Mueang Rayong district, who reported concerns about a male lion being kept at a home in the middle of the community. They feared the animal could pose a serious danger if it escaped and said its roaring during the night was causing anxiety and disturbing their sleep.
On 26 June 2026, Arun Pongphaitoon, Director of the Wildlife Conservation Division at Protected Areas Regional Office 2 (Si Racha), joined officials from the Department of Provincial Administration, Ban Phe Municipality, village leaders and other relevant agencies to inspect the property after receiving the complaints.
Officials found that the owner possessed all required legal documentation for the lion. The animal had been microchipped and officially registered in accordance with government regulations. A detailed inspection of the enclosure concluded that it was highly secure and robust enough to prevent the lion from escaping.
However, inspectors found that parts of the enclosure did not have a roof. They advised the owner to install additional steel structures to seal all openings and consider fitting electric fencing around the perimeter to further improve safety for the surrounding community.
Officials also instructed the owner to ensure emergency equipment, including an electric baton, fire extinguisher and warning system, remained readily available. They confirmed these items had already been provided appropriately.
Despite the official assessment, local residents said they remained worried because lions are dangerous animals and any unexpected incident could have severe consequences. They called for regular inspections to ensure safety standards continue to be met.
The inspection also addressed complaints about the lion’s roaring during the night. Although the owner had already built a soundproof room, officials recommended further improvements to increase its effectiveness and reduce the impact on nearby residents.
The Daily News reported that authorities said they will closely monitor the owner’s progress and conduct a follow-up inspection to ensure all recommended improvements have been completed.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 28 June 2026