Wildlife Officials Order Capture of Leopard After Staff Death
Wildlife officials are capturing a leopard near Huay Kha Kaeng sanctuary after a ranger's fatal attack, with DNA testing to identify which of an estimated five leopards in the area was responsible.
The Department of National Parks director has ordered the capture of a leopard near the Huay Kha Kaeng wildlife station following the fatal attack on a ranger. DNA testing will compare hair evidence with captured animals to identify which leopard was responsible, with preliminary estimates suggesting no more than five leopards in the area. The department emphasized it maintains ongoing research teams studying leopards in Huay Kha Kaeng and has collected comprehensive data, making expert DNA analysis essential to determine which individual animal attacked the official and to study its behavior to prevent future incidents. Officials assured the public there will be no harm to the leopards, as the focus is on identification and monitoring. The Huay Kha Kaeng Wildlife Sanctuary has been temporarily closed following the attack. Analysis of the incident suggests there were no blood droplets or signs of struggle, with shocked colleagues recounting the discovery of the ranger's body.
