Overview
- Thailand’s conservation authority and Panthera confirmed 29 camera-trap detections in Princess Sirindhorn Wildlife Sanctuary, announcing the results on December 26, 2025.
- Researchers launched the survey last year and have not yet determined how many distinct cats were photographed because individuals look very similar.
- Images include a female with a juvenile, indicating local reproduction within the southern Thailand sanctuary.
- The species is restricted to Southeast Asia’s swamp and mangrove habitats and is listed as threatened by the IUCN, which estimates roughly 2,500 remain globally.
- Experts warn of ongoing risks from habitat loss, fragmentation and disease from domestic animals and urge targeted protection and continued monitoring.