Thailand’s tropical climate and waterways make for a wildlife haven. 10% of the world’s species live here, and it is home to thousands of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and aquatic life, including many rare and endangered species.
From jungles to coral reefs, Thailand offers a wildlife experience you will never forget. Whether spotting elephants, big cats, reef fish, or other native animals, Thailand’s biodiversity will captivate nature lovers and tourists looking for adventure and discovery.
Where to see wildlife in Thailand
Thailand’s flora and fauna journeys can move north or south or a mixture of the two. The north of Thailand is considered much less ‘touristy’ than the south, and the bulk of elephant parks are located right here. Many tourists fly into Chiang Mai and then travel to the countryside from there.
Those who journey south will come upon countrywide parks consisting of Khao Sok and Thailand’s finest beaches. On snorkeling and diving expeditions off Phi Phi Island or within the Similan and Surin Islands, you could see a leopard shark, which can be less difficult to see than clouded leopards on land. Even in case you don’t see one, there are masses of brightly colored reef fish.
Some of the interesting species of animals found in Thailand include:
1. Tokay Gecko
The Tokay Gecko stands apart from other lizards because it makes a loud roar and has colorful skin. One should stay away from these creatures since they deliver painful bites.
2. Asian Water Monitor Lizard
The largest lizard in Thailand, they can grow to 2 meters and shock even the toughest. You can see them in zoos, minding their own business near the water.
3. Bumblebee Bat
The tiniest mammal of the world lives in colonies of at least a hundred in Thailand’s limestone caves. Their population is rapidly diminishing as a result of habitat loss and resource depletion.
4. Asian Giant Softshell Turtle
For freshwater species, the shell is smashed. Maybe endangered due to habitat destruction, easy to hunt as they hide in their shell.
5. Burmese Python
The largest python, growing up to 19 feet and capable of hunting creatures as large as deer. Burmese Pythons are deadly. Avert if found.
6. Moonrat
This type of rat is hated because of the strong ammonia smell. They are white, sleep in the day, and hunt at night time.
Elephants in Thailand
The elephant is the national animal of Thailand. Asian Elephant is Thailand’s largest mammal. Elephants are considered religious and royal symbols in Thailand, and they are used in fairs, industries, and agriculture. But in recent years, their population has declined, and now they are also among the endangered animals.
Several country-wide flora and fauna reserves, parks, and sanctuaries provide these animals with plenty of food and refuge, in addition to a rollercoaster revel for adventurers who visit them.
The Asian Elephant, Thailand’s countrywide animal, is a cultural and industrial image but is now endangered. Wildlife reserves and sanctuaries provide them with safety whilst supplying adventurers with unique experiences in nature.