Tigers are disappearing from Southeast Asia. A forest in Thailand is offering new hope

As Global Tiger Day approaches, Thailand’s Western Forest Complex (WEFCOM) has seen a significant increase in its tiger population. A recent study led by Thailand’s Department of National Parks and the Wildlife Conservation Society revealed that the tiger population in WEFCOM has more than tripled from 41 to 143 between 2007 and 2023. This growth is attributed to improved forest management and conservation efforts. The study also found that populations of ungulate species, the main prey for tigers, have doubled in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary. The success in WEFCOM offers hope for tiger conservation in the region, where tiger populations have significantly declined.