Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park has shared images of a rare serow walking along Sam Phraya Beach in Kui Buri district, an unusual sighting away from the steep limestone slopes where the animals normally live.
In a statement dated 3 October, the park said the sighting was an encouraging sign for its conservation work and the condition of its limestone forest habitat.
Serows typically live and forage on cliffs and rugged mountains. Park officials said the animal’s appearance on the beach, where the mountains meet the sea, suggested it felt secure moving through the area.
Serow sighting welcomed by park chief
Ekkarit Duangmala, chief of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, welcomed the close-range sighting.
“Seeing a serow at close range at Sam Phraya Beach is particularly encouraging. It demonstrates that this forest provides a safe home for rare wildlife,” he said.
He credited the work of patrol officers, local residents helping to protect the park, and visitors who follow its regulations.
The serow is designated as a reserved wild animal under Thailand’s Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act 2019. The mainland serow is classified as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List.
The park continues to monitor threats through SMART patrols, which use field observations and data to guide protection work. Officers also collect wildlife population information to support research.
Community awareness activities encourage residents living around the park to participate in protecting its natural resources.