Picture courtesy of Thai Rath

 

In a remarkable turn of events, researchers have captured images of the critically endangered Thai freshwater crocodile sunbathing in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park. This significant finding in Phitsanulok Province suggests that the ecosystems in the park remain robust enough to support such rare wildlife.

 

The discovery was made by a team led by Ms. Daengrawee Phromrak from the Conservation Area Management Office 11, who has been closely monitoring the area since 2014.

 

These researchers have been diligently surveying tracks and installing wildlife camera traps to monitor the elusive species. While locals have occasionally reported seeing crocodiles, the last documented sighting in the area was in 2013.

 

Known scientifically as Crocodylus siamensis, the Thai freshwater crocodile, sometimes called the Siamese crocodile, is native to Southeast Asia. A fully grown adult measures approximately 3 to 4 metres in length.

 

These crocodiles become sexually mature at 10 to 12 years of age, laying around 20 to 48 eggs with an incubation period extending from 68 to 85 days.

 

Preferring still or slow-moving water, they primarily feed on fish and small animals. Crucially, these creatures are not typically aggressive towards humans unless provoked or faced with food scarcity.

 

Historically, Thai freshwater crocodiles inhabited much of Southeast Asia, including numerous locations within Thailand.

 

However, their numbers have dwindled to alarming levels, prompting their classification as critically endangered by both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

 

The photographic evidence of these crocodiles in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is a promising sign for conservationists. It indicates that despite global ecological pressures, certain habitats remain intact enough to support these rare creatures. This discovery could invigorate efforts to protect and possibly increase their numbers in the wild.

 

Nonetheless, conservation challenges persist. The Khlong Chompoo area, where the crocodile was sighted, could potentially face future environmental impacts due to proposed reservoir projects. It is crucial for ongoing conservation efforts to ensure that such developments do not jeopardise the already precarious existence of these crocodiles.

 

In conclusion, while the sighting offers a glimmer of hope, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight to protect our planet's biodiversity. For these reptiles, symbols of Southeast Asia's natural heritage, efforts must be intensified to secure their survival in an ever-changing world, reported Thai Rath.

 

-- 2025-03-14

 

 

13 minutes ago, webfact said:

Crucially, these creatures are not typically aggressive towards humans unless provoked or faced with food scarcity.

 

Translation:  They'll only eat you if they're hungry.

 

Coming soon to a handbag near you.......

7 hours ago, webfact said:

In a remarkable turn of events, researchers have captured images of the critically endangered Thai freshwater crocodile sunbathing in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park.

Tell everyone where it is, why not.