Kaeng Krachan National Park Releases Two Pure Thai Freshwater Crocodiles Back to Their Native River

Restoring pure Thai freshwater crocodiles to their World Heritage Site! On February 18, 2024, Mongkol Chaiyaphakdee, head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, led a team of park officials and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Thailand to return two pure native freshwater crocodiles to their 'true home' in the Phetchaburi River headwaters to restore the ecosystem. Mr. Mongkol stated that these two crocodiles were wildlife discovered in the Phetchaburi River area. The park coordinated with Nawin Julakarat and Chalong Thongsong, assistant park chiefs, and the WCS team to conduct a detailed investigation. DNA testing from the Genomics and Biodiversity Research Unit at Kasetsart University's Faculty of Science conclusively confirmed that the two crocodiles are pure 'Siamese Crocodiles' naturally remaining in the Wang Kha area of the Phetchaburi River headwaters, with no cross-breeding - a cause for celebration in global conservation circles. The two crocodiles were officially received and approved by the Department of Fisheries for release back into the conservation area. Prior to the mission, the park held an annual merit-making ceremony at the KU Camp in Kaeng Krachan National Park, allowing the crocodiles to return to their forest and sustainably preserve the river's headwaters.