20 September 2024

The Dong Yai wildlife sanctuary, in Thailand’s north-eastern province of Buri Ram, is open to those interested in watching gaur grazing the savanna.

The recent arrival of the rainy season, after a long period of unusually hot weather this year, has caused grass on the savanna of the Dong Yai wildlife sanctuary to grow rapidly, attracting herds of gaur, especially to Khao Krapod, to graze.

On Saturday, officials at the sanctuary released pictures of a herd of more than 30 gaur grazing on the Khao Krapod savanna.

The sanctuary’s chief, Somsuan Raksat, said that there are several herds of gaur in the sanctuary, with the largest numbering about 60.

He said that anyone interested in observing species in the wild, such as gaur, elephants and deer, can contact the sanctuary’s office in advance, so arrangements can be made to facilitate their visit.  The office can be contacted on 044-666209.

According to the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation, gaur usually live together in a herd of up to 60.  They live in the highlands and forage for food with other herbivores. The male gaur often lives alone and will only join a herd during the mating season.

Gaur are a Category 2 endangered species.