In 2021, WWF Foundation supported the project to release wild deer back into the wild in Mae Wong National Park, Kamphaeng Phet Province , which is implemented under the project to restore the tiger population in Mae Wong-Khlong Lan National Park, in collaboration with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and WWF Thailand. From long-term research data on tigers and ungulates in the area, it was found that the population of ungulates in the forest tends to be relatively stable, especially large ungulates such as gaur and sambar, which are important prey for many predators, including tigers. In order for predators to recover or increase their population, there must be a sufficient number of prey animals. Therefore, improving the habitats and foraging areas of ungulates, such as adjusting grasslands and creating artificial salt licks, will help increase the food and necessary minerals for these animals.
Researchers from WWF Thailand had the opportunity to work with Mae Wong-Khlong Lan National Park, Khao Kho Wildlife Breeding Station, Bang Lamung Wildlife Breeding Station, and Kasetsart University to plan a deer release project in Mae Wong National Park. A total of 32 deer were released and 12 were fitted with VHF radio collars to monitor survival rates and habitat use after release. The data can be used to evaluate and expand the project in the following year.
In addition, WWF Foundation has also supported the prevention and suppression work in Mae Wong – Khlong Lan National Park, which is the area of operation of the Tiger Population Restoration Project, by providing necessary equipment to forest rangers for their quality patrols, such as GPS, digital cameras, batteries, waterproof bags, etc., to help manage forest protection more effectively.
In addition, WWF Foundation has also supported the creation of understanding for youth and communities near Mae Wong-Khlong Lan National Park, which is another important goal of the Tiger Population Restoration Project, by supporting sound equipment and other equipment used in public relations activities. In the past year, the project has carried out activities at Ban Plaeng Si School and Mong Khlong Lan Market, Khlong Lan District, Kamphaeng Phet Province, regarding the conservation of natural resources and wildlife to increase awareness and see the value of wildlife, especially tigers, in the forest.
