Officials discovered the carcass of a female gaur on 28 October at the edge of a pineapple plantation in a military safety zone in Moo 5, Khao Chao Subdistrict, about five kilometres outside Kui Buri National Park.
Mr. Somjet Jantana, Director of the Office of Conservation Area Administration 3, Phetchaburi branch, confirmed that the discovery was reported by Mr. Attapong Phaoaon, head of Kui Buri National Park. A team of park officials was dispatched to the site and found the animal lying on its right side.
Initial observations suggested the gaur had been dead for around five days. Scab-like marks were visible on the animal’s body, though no fresh wounds were found. The carcass was guarded by park officials until veterinarians could conduct a detailed examination.
Mr. Nopporn Akkamanee, a forestry operations officer and assistant head of Kui Buri National Park, and Mr. Anurak Sakulpong, a veterinarian from the Conservation Area Administration, examined the animal. They identified the gaur as a fully mature female, estimated to be 15 to 20 years old and weighing between 800 and 1,000 kilograms.
During the examination, the animal’s external condition appeared intact, with only wart-like growths present. A scan for metal objects revealed nothing unusual. However, the autopsy uncovered bruising and clotted blood from the chest to the hips, suggesting internal injuries.
Veterinarians suspect the gaur died following a fight with another of its species, with the pattern of bruising consistent with the width of a male gaur’s horns. To prevent any potential spread of disease, officials recommended that the carcass be buried on-site.
The gaur’s head was removed and taken to the national park for preservation. Mr. Nopporn Akkamanee filed a report at Pranburi Police Station to document the discovery.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to ensure no further risks to local wildlife.