Latest news with #WildlifeConservationandProtectionActof2019
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Trail cameras capture incredible footage of one-of-a-kind herd for first time in years: 'Let's take care of them'
A golden capture on a trail camera showcased the only herd of wild buffalo left in Thailand. "Officials said Thailand's only population of wild water buffalo — made up of 69 individuals — is found in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani Province," the Miami Herald reported. The incredible footage was captured and posted to Facebook by Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The buffalo were found in the Huai Kha Khaeng, which works to protect endangered species. With only one herd in the country left, the footage is extremely rare. A dramatic population reduction of at least 50% over the last three generations is likely to have occurred, "given the severity of the threats, especially hybridization," according to Thai National Parks. Indeed, the wild water buffalo has reportedly been interbreeding with interbred or feral water buffalo, resulting in a decline in the species' population. Other threats include hunting and severe habitat loss from agricultural development as well as the degradation of wetlands from invasive species. Conservation efforts throughout Thailand seek to protect the species as they are among the 21 protected wildlife species under Thailand's Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019. Capturing the species on camera allows researchers to understand the species more so that they can address ways to support their population. It also enables the public to learn about the threats the animals face, so each individual can do their part to support environmental efforts that keep these species alive. To support animals like these, respecting the rules of national parks and keeping a safe distance from all animals ensures their ability to survive. Further, small, individual efforts to help the environment go a long way in maintaining ecosystems and fostering regrowth. Facebook users who saw the post expressed their support for the herd. "Must preserve the area," wrote one. "Don't let anyone invade the forest." "Let's take care of them," another wholesomely commented. Do you think America is in a housing crisis? Definitely Not sure No way Only in some cities Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Miami Herald
16-05-2025
- General
- Miami Herald
Enormous horned water mammals make a rare appearance on Thailand trail camera
The only herd of wild water buffalo left in Thailand made a rare appearance on camera at a wildlife sanctuary. The large mammals, with their distinct long curved horns, were captured on camera traps at Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, according to a May 14 Facebook post from Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Wildlife officials said that although this species, Bubalus arnee, looks like the domestic water buffalo, it is much larger and can be 6.5 feet tall when fully grown. The species lives in small herds and can be found in floodplains, swamps and riverside forests. They forage day and night for grass, tree leaves and bamboo shoots, officials said. Officials said Thailand's only population of wild water buffalo — made up of 69 individuals — is found in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani Province. The wild buffalo are at high risk of extinction, according to officials. They are one of 21 protected wildlife species under Thailand's Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019. The species faces threats from hunting, habitat loss, interbreeding with domestic cattle, and disease spread by domestic livestock, according to experts. Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary is about a 185-mile drive northwest from Bangkok. Google Translate was used to translate the Facebook post from Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.
