Wildlife Wonders of Thailand: A Guide to National Parks and Exotic Species (2024)

Nestled within the charming landscapes of Thailand are hundreds of natural landscapes, each a distinct chapter in the nation’s natural legacy. Amongst these protected regions are nearly 156 national parks, 58 wildlife sanctuaries, 67 non-hunting areas, and 120 forest parks, forming a rich tapestry of conservation. These numbers can be intimidating, but beyond them lies a realm of adventure where Thailand unfolds as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Yes, to the unknowns, Thailand isn’t only about beaches and temples but also ‘wildlife.’

Join us in this article as we explore Thai Wildlife Species, from the familiar to the rare and exotic. Within Thai national parks, a symphony of nature’s marvels awaits discovery. For anyone seeking to explore wildlife in Thailand, here are all the essential details.

21 Common, Rare, and Endemic Wildlife Species in Thailand

1. Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus): These gentle giants are a common sight and can be found roaming freely.
   

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2. Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris): Thailand is home to around 350 Bengal Tigers, an iconic but rare species of majestic big cats.
3. Gaur (Bos aurus): Commonly found in Thailand’s dense forest, these are the largest wild cattle species.
4. Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa): These leopards are popular for their distinctive cloud-like markings and are also rare and elusive felines
5. Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis): These endangered crocodile species are found in the freshwater habitats of Thailand.
6. Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus): Found in the forests of Thailand, these are the smallest bear species.
7. Hornbill Species: Thailand is home to various hornbill species, including the Great Hornbill and the Rhinoceros Hornbill.
8. Malayan Tapir (Tapirus indicus): Commonly found in the forests of Thailand, they are recognized by their distinctive black-and-white coloration.
9. Slow Loris (Nycticebus spp.): A nocturnal primate with large, round eyes, native to Southeast Asia.
10. King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah): Living in the Thai forests, these are the longest venomous snakes in the world.
11. Giant Muntjac (Muntiacus vuquangensis): An endemic and relatively rare deer species in Thailand’s mountainous regions.
12. White-eyed River Martin (Pseudochelidon sirintarae): These bird species are known for their distinctive presence in the sky. They are, in fact, endemic to the Bueng Boraphet, Thailand’s largest freshwater lake in Nakhon Sawan Province.
13. Limnonectes Megastomias: Discovered in 2008, these robust, large-headed fanged frogs bring an amphibious charm to Thailand.
14. Ichthyophis youngorum: These fascinating creatures are found in the rainforests of Doi Suthep, near Chiang Mai.
15. Giant Muntjac (Muntiacus vuquangensis): An endemic deer species found in Thailand’s mountainous regions, the Giant Muntjac stands as a symbol of the country’s diverse fauna.
16. White-handed Gibbon (Hylobates lar): Inhabiting Thailand’s tropical forests, these agile and acrobatic primates add a lively dimension to the country’s primate community.
17. Asian Water Monitor (Varanus salvator): Commonly spotted near water bodies, this sizable lizard contributes to the reptilian diversity of Thai landscapes.
18. Cloud Rat (Phloeomys cumingi): Residing in the highlands, this rodent species adds a touch of uniqueness to Thailand’s mammalian inhabitants.
19. Orange-breasted Trogon (Harpactes oreskios): Found in the country’s forests, this vibrantly colored bird graces the treetops with its distinctive presence.
20. Humphead Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus): this impressive fish species contributes to the underwater biodiversity around Thailand.
21. Blue Mormon Butterfly (Papilio polymnestor): Fluttering through Thai gardens, this striking butterfly species adds a touch of elegance to the country’s insect diversity.

8 Popular National Parks in Thailand for Wildlife Spotting

1. Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai, Thailand’s oldest national park, beckons wildlife enthusiasts with its diverse inhabitants. Here, elephants roam freely, and the skies come alive with the fluttering of wrinkle-lipped bats. The park is a residence for tigers, gibbons, macaques, and a variety of deer. As the sun sets, porcupines and jackals emerge. Adding to the symphony of nature, hornbills soar through the air, and avid bird watchers can spot barbets, broadbills, woodpeckers, junglefowl, partridges, and the striking Siamese fireback. Khao Yai, a biodiverse treasure, promises an immersive encounter with Thailand’s rich wildlife.

2. Khao Sok National Park

Nestled in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park, one of Asia’s ancient rainforests, is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. Among its lush landscapes, elephants and tigers coexist with 40 mammal species, 311 bird varieties, and a myriad of reptiles and insects. Adding to the park’s unique charm is the presence of the world’s only known amphibious centipede, Scolopendra cataracta. This natural jewel, with its rich biodiversity, invites visitors to explore the wonders of one of the oldest rainforests in Asia.

3. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

A haven for wildlife watchers, Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park boasts the beauty of Thailand in different forms. The park is home to macaques, langurs, and water monitor lizards, which all together create a dynamic ecosystem within its boundaries. For wildlife enthusiasts, elephants and gaurs take center stage in their most active moments during the afternoon. Whether observing primates, reptiles, or the majestic giants of the park, Khao Sam Roi Yot is a must-visit place in Thailand for an immersive encounter.

4. Kaeng Krachan National Park

As Thailand’s largest national park, Kaeng Krachan stands as a land for all and any kind of wildlife. This National Park is particularly home to endangered species like tigers, making it a crucial conservation area in Southeast Asia. Within its huge area, the park hosts elusive creatures, including Asiatic black bears and Siamese crocodiles. However, their sightings are a rare but thrilling possibility with a knowledgeable guide. Bird enthusiasts can explore the trails near the campground, where the enchanting long-tailed broadbill and the majestic Oriental pied hornbill, amongst 460 bird species, are waiting to be discovered. Kaeng Krachan National Park isn’t just a national park but a sanctuary of biodiversity that is committed to wildlife preservation in Thailand.

5. Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park is a premier birdwatching destination in Thailand. Don’t mistake it for finding just a few birds; it is internationally recognized for its avian diversity. The different habitats at Doi Inthanon National Park include dry dipterocarp forests on lower slopes and hill evergreen and pine forests at higher altitudes. With such a variety, the park hosts over 300 bird species. Among the common sightings are Grey Bushchats, Siberian Ruby-throats, Buff-throated, Radde’s, and Yellow-streaked warblers, as well as Red-flanked Bluetails, White-tailed, and Ashy-throated leaf-warblers. During winter, the summit hosts Orange-barred leaf warblers. Doi Inthanon invites bird enthusiasts to witness the captivating spectacle of Thailand’s winged wonders in their natural habitats.

6. Hat Chao Mai National Park

Hat Chao Mai National Park, located in Thailand, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, both on land and in the surrounding marine environment. The National Park is a common spot for encountering small mammals, such as squirrels and civets, along with a variety of insects and butterflies. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy a chance to spot colorful coral reefs, fish, and other marine species. Reptiles, including water monitor lizards and species of kangaroo or wallaby, along with a diverse range of birdlife, including coastal and forest species, are also common here.

7. Ko Chang National Park

Ko Chang National Park, a sanctuary of biodiversity, hosts an impressive array of Thailand’s wildlife. Among its inhabitants are 29 mammal species, 74 bird species, and 42 reptile species, including the unique Ko Chang Frog, the park’s only endemic species. Birdwatchers can delight in sightings of the White-bellied sea eagle, Brahmini Kite, Pacific swallow, Pacific swift, Scaly-breasted munia, Yellow-vented bulbul, Black-headed bulbul, Dark-necked tailorbird, Ferruginous flycatcher, White-rumped shama, Ashy Drongo, Hill myna, and Black-crested bulbul. The park also houses a good population of Rock monitors, and during the night, the enchanting calls of the Painted Bullfrog and Four-lined tree frog fill the air. Additionally, elephants and monkeys add to Ko Chang’s dynamic wildlife tapestry.

8. Ob Khan National Park

Ob Khan National Park in Thailand is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting a wide variety of species. Among its residents are mouse deer, Asian palm civets, mongooses, and porcupines. The park is also home to mainland serows, common muntjac, fishing cats, gorals, Muliacus Muntjak, bears, wild rabbits, wild boars, monkeys, slow lorises, squirrels, tree shrews, rats, and more. The Mae Khan River, a highlight of the park, adds to its allure. Birdwatching is a popular activity here, providing an opportunity to spot a diverse array of bird species in this vibrant natural haven.