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Black Leopard Spotted Near Panoen Thung Viewpoint

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Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

A rare daytime sighting of a fully grown black leopard near kilometre marker 21 in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi, has drawn widespread attention after a tour vehicle driver captured the moment on 10 December 2025. The leopard appeared at around 10:00 as the driver was returning from the Panoen Thung summit after completing a morning drop-off. The incident has reinforced the importance of visitor safety and strict wildlife-observation guidelines within the park.

 

According to Mongkol Chaipakdee, chief of Kaeng Krachan National Park, the appearance of a black leopard in broad daylight is exceptionally uncommon. He noted that the species typically emerges during dusk or night, making this encounter particularly striking. The sighting is also seen as a clear indicator of the continuing ecological health and security of the forest habitat.

 

Park authorities stressed that such occurrences highlight the significance of maintaining strict conservation practices within Thailand’s largest national park. The presence of a rare predator during daylight hours may reflect stable food sources and minimal human disturbance. Officials also emphasised that the park remains an important refuge for endangered and hard-to-observe wildlife species.

 

Following the sighting, Mongkol called for consistent cooperation from visitors to ensure safety for both people and wildlife. He urged tourists to keep a safe distance, remain inside their vehicles at all times, avoid loud noises and refrain from any behaviour that may disturb or frighten animals. He reiterated the absolute prohibition on feeding wildlife and encouraged visitors to immediately report unusual incidents or sightings to park rangers.

 

Naewna reported that the park will continue monitoring wildlife activity along key routes, including the Panoen Thung access road, to ensure safe visitor management. Rangers are also expected to review the area near kilometre marker 21 for any signs of increased animal movement in daylight hours. Authorities say continued reporting from staff and tourists will support effective conservation and rapid response to any emerging issues.

 

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• A fully grown black leopard was sighted in daylight on 10 December 2025 near kilometre marker 21 in Kaeng Krachan National Park.

• The sighting highlights the park’s strong ecological condition and the safety of its wildlife habitats.

• Park officials urge visitors to stay in vehicles, avoid disturbances, and report any unusual wildlife activity immediately.

 

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image.png Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-12-13


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I don´t think they have a clue if it belongs to the Panthera Pardus (Leopard family), or the Panthera Onca (Jaguar family), So, to straight out call it a black leopard is debatable. Better to call it a Black Panther

Very simple answer. Jaguars live in Middle and South America, leopards live in Africa and Asia. 

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