PHETCHABURI, Thailand – A marbled cat, listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been spotted in Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi province. According to park chief Mongkol Chaipakdee, the rare sighting was made during a routine patrol by park officials near the 12-kilometer marker on a road within the park.
The marbled cat, scientifically known as Pardofelis marmorata, is currently 12th on Thailand’s list of protected wild animals. Its presence in Kaeng Krachan indicates the park’s ecological significance and rich biodiversity, reaffirming its status as a crucial wildlife habitat.
Kaeng Krachan National Park, part of the larger Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, was designated a natural World Heritage site in 2021. The complex is known for its diverse species, including several endangered and rare animals, making it a critical area for conservation.
Park officials are urging the public to support ongoing efforts to preserve the unique environment and wildlife of the region to ensure the survival of species like the marbled cat. The park remains an essential stronghold for many protected species in Thailand. (NNT)
