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¹ÔµÂÊÒÃÊÒä´Õ Feature Magazine | ISSN 0857-1538 | |
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There are more to forests than trees. That is why if we are to protect them, we have to think far and wide. We have to think about every factor that contribute to their survival as well as detriment. Some academics call this approach an ecosystem management of forest, hopefully a more holistic way to manage the precious natural resource under constant threat. With a total area of more than 11 million rai or about 18,000 square kilometer, the Western Forest Complex is the largest protected piece of forest in Southeast Asia. The expansive area, covering 15 conserved forests, means the complex features a mosaic of many zoogeographic ranges which result in rich biodiversity. The Western Forest Complex is home to more than 150 species of mammals, 490 birds, more than 90 reptiles, more than 40 amphibians and more than 108 species of fish. |
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Thanks to its close relationship with the habitat and environment, wildlife and its status can serve as an indicator of the health of the forest. That is why a survey of wildlife is a key to the ecosystem management of forest. After a thorough consultation with many academics and wildlife specialists, ten species were selected as targets for the survey namely the Asian Elephant, Tiger, Gaur, Banteng, Sambar Deer, Malayan Tapir, Great Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Green Peafowl and Giant Mountain Frog. The reasons why these animals were selected are: they are indicator species, have a wide range and are of interest to the public. |
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Khao Khiew or Doi Kajerla is one important target of this field survey. With an elevation of 2,152 meter, Khao Khiew is the highest peak in the western forest. As anticipated, the unexplored mountain had quite a few surprises in store for the survey team. Tapir tracks were plentiful while those of gaurs were spotted from time to time. The survey also yielded a new bird record, the Long-tailed wren-babbler was first spotted on the mountain. |
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Sad but true, during the survey, the study team had to be careful not to run into illegal loggers and wildlife poachers. Gunfire was heard in almost every forest they went to. Even more dangerous are the methamphetamine smugglers who take to the forests both as production base and transfer routes. They come in a large number and are usually heavily armed. Another sad fact that the survey produced is although the Western Forest Complex cover such a vast space, only its heart - basically the Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Sanctuary and World Heritage Site - retain the capacity to support wildlife. |