Rare siamese crocodile spotted in Thailand: a sign of hope for conservation

It seemed like a creature relegated to the world of legends, a myth passed down from generation to generation. Yet, the Siamese crocodile has re-emerged from the mists of time, giving us an image of hope for the future of biodiversity

Conservation groups have been engulfed by a tide of shock and disbelief at the recent discovery of a Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) at Yod Dom Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand. Once found widely throughout Southeast Asia’s freshwater habitats, the species has been virtually wiped out by habitat destruction and relentless hunting. It is now “critically endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

The video, which went viral quickly over the internet, captures the crocodile basking in the sun on a rock along the Lam Dom Yai River, looking unbothered by the camera.

This record sight is the second within less than two years. In March 2023, a Siamese crocodile was photographed using another camera trap, exciting specialists. Although they are not rare, these records suggest that small vestiges of the species might still be living in remote and well-protected nooks and crannies, which keeps it from being pushed towards extinction.

The Chalawan: a symbol of revival

The Siamese crocodile is not only a natural occurrence; it is also culturally entrenched in Thai society. “Chalawan” is the local name for the animal, and it is one of the central figures in ancient myths and legends, typically depicted as a magical being that can transform into a human being. Its reappearance after decades of absence has a meaning that transcends scientific discovery, symbolizing renewal and hope.

The Thai Department of National Parks has increased surveillance work in the area to study and conserve these last remaining individuals. Conservation of habitats is now top priority, and deforestation and pollution are dangerous threats. Further, local sensitization and community involvement in protection efforts have emerged as a major priority.

A portrait of the Siamese crocodile

But what is a Siamese crocodile, anyway? Crocodylus siamensis is a medium-sized freshwater crocodile with a relatively wide snout and a distinctive bony ridge behind the eyes. It is olive green to dark green in color, which is quite good camouflage in its native environment.

The Siamese crocodile had in the past a broad distribution throughout Southeast Asia and was found in rivers, lakes, swamps, and wetlands. Its diet is mixed, consisting of fish, snakes, amphibians, and small mammals. Unlike its larger and more deadly cousin, the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), the Chalawan is generally not dangerous to man.

Unfortunately, widespread habitat destruction and uncontrolled hunting have pushed the Siamese crocodile to the brink of extinction. Wetlands were drained to create rice paddies, pesticides contaminated the water, and the species was hunted relentlessly for its skin and meat.

A Species in Peril

Despite the enthusiasm this recent sighting has generated, the future of the Siamese crocodile remains bleak. Its numbers are a mere few hundred animals in Southeast Asia. Additionally, hybridization with larger, more dominant saltwater crocodile threatens the genetic purity of the species.

An uncertain future, but a glimmer of hope

Conservation in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos is underway to prevent the extinction of the Siamese crocodile. Conservation activities involve protecting the habitat, breeding, and engaging local communities.

In Cambodia, the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme has a captive breeding and reintroduction program with promising results. In Laos, the government is being assisted by the Wildlife Conservation Society to conserve the species’ habitat and engage local communities in conservation efforts.