Animals
National Animal
The Asian Elephant“People are so difficult. Give me an elephant any day.”
Mark Shand
Animals commonly seen in the wild
Marine fauna:
Whale sharks, sea otters, sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, sea snakes, barracudas
Birds:
Ducks, herons, egrets, gulls, cormorants, kite birds, terns, buzzards, hoopoes, doves, eagles
Land mammals:
Water buffalos, elephants, monkeys, macaques, Malaysian sun bears, wild hogs, deer, tapirs
Snakes and insects:
Lizards, crocodiles, geckos, blind snakes, pythons, beetles, bees, wasps, butterflies, moths
Common sights you will not like
In the city and on the road
There are lots of Soi dogs (stray dogs) in Thailand. Live animals such as puppies, kittens, birds and fish are sold in special pet markets.
In theCountryside
Stray dogs and cats can also be seen in the countryside. Water buffaloes are working animals in the fields. Sometimes they can be seen tied up. Some still offer elephant rides and entertainment, however, through public awareness brought by social media and other means, more people are becoming aware of ethical treatment towards elephants.
Hunting or poaching:
Hunting is illegal in the country. Protected animals include tigers and bears. Elephants are poached from other countries and trafficked in Thailand. Wild elephants are protected by Thailand’s national animal laws and Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) treaty.
Animal fights:
Animal fights are not illegal. Cockfighting is common in Thailand. “Ko Samui” water buffalo fighting festival occurs in Thailand on special days of the year. The tradition is said to be harmless.
Sanctuaries to visit or volunteer:
Elephant Nature Park Phuket Elephant Sanctuary The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project
We have not included the treatment of animals in the meat/fur/leather industries, zoos or circuses, animal testing as it unfortunately still happens in most countries.
