Wildlife

& Insects

Khao Sok National Park

Uncover the Secrets of
Khao Sok National Park!

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Journey into the heart of Khao Sok, a pristine rainforest teeming with life and wonder. This ancient wilderness is home to fascinating creatures like the rare Rafflesia flower, vibrant hornbills, and curious gibbons. Explore lush trails surrounded by the calls of exotic birds, colorful butterflies, and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of wild elephants in their natural habitat. Ideal for adventurers and nature lovers, Khao Sok offers a truly unforgettable experience in one of Thailand’s most remarkable ecosystems.

The Majestic Great Argus (Argusianus argus) in Khao Sok National Park

The Great Argus is a captivating bird native to Southeast Asia, renowned for its extraordinary size and stunning plumage. Male Great Argus birds are especially remarkable, with their elongated tail feathers stretching up to 1.7 meters and intricate eye-like patterns adorning their secondary wing feathers, making them a true spectacle of the rainforest.

Lizards: The Camouflage Experts of Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is home to a fascinating variety of lizard species, each showcasing incredible adaptations to their tropical rainforest habitat. The dense foliage and humid environment make it the perfect sanctuary for these reptiles. Below is a glimpse into the diverse lizard species you might encounter while exploring this lush, vibrant ecosystem.

Malayan Sun Bear

The Malayan Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus), affectionately known as the Honey Bear, is the smallest bear species and inhabits the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. These charming creatures can be spotted in the dense jungles of Khao Sok National Park and the nearby Cheow Lan Lake region, where they thrive in the rich biodiversity of the area.

Gibbons

Khao Sok National Park is a sanctuary for a wide array of wildlife, and the gibbons are among its most captivating residents. Renowned for their exceptional agility, graceful movements, and beautiful songs, these primates play an essential role in the park’s ecosystem, adding a touch of wonder to the forest’s dynamic environment.

Oriental Bay Owl

The Oriental Bay Owl, a member of the Strigiformes order, is a captivating nocturnal bird of prey found in the lush forests of Khao Sok National Park. Recognizable by its unique round face, large, forward-facing eyes, and silent flight, this owl is perfectly adapted to hunting in the dim light of the night, making it an impressive and elusive presence in the park.

The mantis or praying mantis

The praying mantis belongs to the order Mantodea and is easily identified by its slender body, triangular head, and large forelegs designed for grabbing and holding prey. Renowned for their hunting prowess, these insects use patience and stealth to ambush their targets.

The Asian Huntsman Spider

The Asian Huntsman Spider, also called the Cane Spider, is a sizable and swift arachnid commonly seen in tropical regions like Khao Sok National Park. Known for its agility and large size, it thrives in the dense forests and is often found hunting at night.

Microhyla Petrigena

This small amphibian species is endemic to Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani, Thailand. Rare and ecologically significant, it is found only in this unique region.

The Triangle Keelback

A water snake native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand. This species, which grows to a length of approximately 70-100 centimeters, is identifiable by the unique triangular patterns along its back, a feature that gives it its distinctive name.

The Oriental Whipsnake: A Rare Golden Morph

A remarkable and elusive snake species native to the dense forests of Khao Sok National Park, this slender, vibrant green serpent blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Its camouflage among the foliage and branches makes it a challenge to spot, adding to the intrigue of its existence in the wild.

The House Centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata)

This species can also be spotted in the dense, lush forests of Khao Sok National Park, where the unique environment supports its thriving population. The park’s tropical rainforest, with its abundant moisture and mild temperatures, offers a perfect habitat for this creature.

Heteropoda davidbowie

Heteropoda davidbowie, a captivating and rare spider species named after the iconic musician David Bowie, was discovered in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Though elusive and challenging to find in the dense jungles of Khao Sok National Park, this remarkable spider exemplifies the incredible biodiversity that thrives within the park.

The Asian Forest Scorpion

A species of scorpion native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Known for their impressive size, these scorpions can grow up to 10-12 cm in length as adults.

Leopard Cat

A small wild cat species native to various forested regions of Asia, including Thailand. In Khao Sok National Park, the Leopard Cat is a rare and elusive inhabitant that thrives within the park’s abundant and diverse ecosystems.

Red-Eyed Tree Frog (Agalychnis callidryas)

The Red-Eyed Tree Frog (Agalychnis callidryas) is renowned for its vibrant colors and captivating appearance. For nature lovers and adventurers, embarking on a night trek in Khao Sok National Park to spot this remarkable amphibian promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Turtle of Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park boasts incredible biodiversity, providing a habitat for a variety of turtle species that thrive in its lush forests and pristine water bodies. Below is an overview of some turtles that call Khao Sok home.

Spot the Magnificent Gaur at Cheow Lan Lake

Experience the wild wonders of Khao Sok with our specialized wildlife tours! Venture to the breathtaking Cheow Lan Lake, where you’ll have the chance to see the majestic gaur, one of Thailand’s most awe-inspiring animals. Renowned for their muscular build, sleek dark coat, and impressive horns, these magnificent creatures thrive in the dense forests that surround the lake.

Demanietta renongensis

A freshwater crab belonging to the family Gecarcinucidae, this species is unique to Thailand, making it an endemic creature found only in certain parts of the country. First documented in 1898 by Lancelot Alexander Borradaile, it holds ecological significance in its native habitats.

Tapir at Khao Sok

This remarkable photo was taken using a wildlife camera trap installed by park rangers at Khao Sok National Park. The camera caught a tapir roaming near a water source and feeding area designated for the region’s wildlife.

What animal has a pig-like face, rhino-like feet, an elephant-like trunk, and a short bear-like tail? The answer is none other than the extraordinary Tapir!

Flying Lizards

Khao Sok National Park is a haven for diverse wildlife, sheltering a remarkable variety of species, including the fascinating flying lizards. Scientifically classified under the genus Draco, these incredible reptiles amaze visitors with their unique ability to glide effortlessly between trees, making them one of the park’s most intriguing inhabitants.

Hornbills at Khao Sok National Park and Cheow Lan Lake

Cheow Lan Lake, nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Rajjaprabha Dam in Khao Sok National Park, is more than just a picturesque destination.

Spectacled Langur in Khao Sok Forest

The Spectacled Langur, also known as the Dusky Leaf Monkey (Trachypithecus obscurus), is a captivating primate that graces the rainforests of Southeast Asia. Distinguished by their unique facial markings, which resemble a pair of spectacles, these gentle and elusive monkeys are a sight to behold. Their striking appearance and quiet, arboreal lifestyle make them a fascinating species to observe in their natural habitat.

Wild Elephants in Rajjaprabha Dam

Experience the awe-inspiring wild elephants of Khao Sok National Park, a true gem of Thailand’s natural heritage. These majestic creatures roam freely through the park’s lush forests, embodying the spirit of the wilderness and offering an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Discover the Intriguing Pyrops Candelaria

Khao Sok National Park, a vibrant tropical paradise, is teeming with a remarkable variety of plant and animal life. One of its most fascinating inhabitants is the Pyrops candelaria, a strikingly beautiful insect that captivates those lucky enough to spot it in this biodiverse wonderland.