A rare sighting of the endangered Asiatic golden cat was captured by a camera trap in Khao Luang National Park in southern Thailand, highlighting the park’s continuing role as a critical sanctuary for threatened wildlife.
In a rare and encouraging development for conservationists, an Asiatic golden cat—one of Southeast Asia’s lesser-known endangered predators—has been recorded on camera at Khao Luang National Park in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The footage, captured by an automated camera trap, shows the elusive feline walking confidently through a forested area of the park, offering clear visual evidence of its continued presence in the wild.
Park officials confirmed the sighting on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Haritchai Ritchooay, chief of Khao Luang National Park, described the images as significant, noting they underscore the ecological vitality of the park and its ability to support rare and endangered species. The discovery forms part of an ongoing monitoring initiative conducted by the park’s scientific team in collaboration with Patrol Unit 2.
Camera traps, deployed throughout the park, are used to document the movement and behaviour of wildlife species, many of which are rarely seen by humans. These motion-triggered devices allow conservationists to gather crucial data on animal populations, habitats, and potential threats. According to the park, the information is essential for guiding long-term conservation strategies, including anti-poaching measures and habitat preservation.
Despite the positive news, officials cautioned that the Asiatic golden cat continues to face serious threats across its range. Encroachment on forest land, illegal wildlife trade, and habitat degradation remain pressing concerns. The use of snares, in particular, continues to endanger the species; in past years, golden cats have been rescued from traps in several regions of Thailand.
The Asiatic golden cat, also known as Temminck’s cat (Catopuma temminckii), is a medium-sized wild feline with a reddish-brown coat and a build more slender than its close relatives. Unlike many wild cats, it lacks prominent markings such as spots or stripes, giving it a distinct and uniform appearance. One of its more unusual traits is walking with its tail raised vertically—an uncommon feature that can help with species identification in the wild.
The announcement was made by Haritchai Ritchooay, chief of Khao Luang National Park, as part of ongoing efforts by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to strengthen ecological monitoring. The park’s patrol and scientific teams remain active in preserving the forest ecosystem and preventing wildlife crime, as reported by multiple Thai news sources.
