TAK — 21 April 2026, A young female tiger has been found dead in the eastern section of Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary, with officials believing it was killed in a territorial fight with a stronger resident tiger.
Phanaschakorn Bhodhibundit, director of Protected Areas Regional Office 14, said the carcass was discovered on 19 April by patrol teams from Huai Nam Khiao ranger unit and the Khao Nang Ram Wildlife Research Station while retrieving camera traps in the Huai Laga Beng Lek forest area.
The animal had multiple bite wounds across its body, consistent with an attack by another large carnivore.
Officials said the tiger was a subadult female, not yet fully grown. Measurements of its front paw were approximately 8.5 centimetres wide and 10.5 centimetres long, with a paw pad length of 7 centimetres.
Initial examination found severe wounds, particularly around the neck, chest and right hind leg, believed to have been inflicted during a territorial clash with a stronger tiger. Such conflicts are common among wild cats as they reach maturity and begin establishing their own territories.
The carcass was destroyed by burning at the site in line with Department of National Parks regulations to prevent the spread of disease and deter illegal trafficking of animal parts.
Piyapong Suebsen, head of the eastern section of the sanctuary, said the loss, while distressing, reflects natural selection in the wild, where stronger individuals survive.
He added that signs of territorial competition indicate a healthy and dense tiger population in the forest, which remains a key habitat for globally endangered species.
