Abundance and habitat suitability of Siamese crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis, Schneider 1801) in Phetchaburi River, Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand

A critically endangered population of Siamese crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis) in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand, is estimated to consist of only four individuals, with a low encounter rate of 0.22 per kilometer along the Phetchaburi River. The study, conducted through 13 rafting trips covering 315 kilometers from December 2021 to July 2023, identified key environmental factors influencing crocodile distribution, including slope, elevation, forest types, cumulative flow rates upstream, and land use patterns. A highly reliable model (score: 0.99±0.02) underscored the significance of this river area for conservation. Recommendations include habitat protection, threat surveillance systems, population studies, community involvement, captive breeding programs, and public awareness campaigns to ensure sustainable conservation and potential population restoration.

CHANPRADUB, K., PATTANAWIBOOL, A., SAISAMORN, A., BHUMPAKPHAN, N., CHANTHANA, S., THONGSONG, C., OUANSING, Y., SUKSAWATE, W., & SUKMASUANG, R. (2023). Abundance and habitat suitability of Siamese crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis, Schneider 1801) in Phetchaburi River, Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity, 24(9). https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d240916