Thailand: 70 Tigers Dead at Mae Rim’s Tiger Kingdom – Investigation Launched
A significant number of tigers – reportedly over 70 – have died mysteriously within a month at Tiger Kingdom in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, Thailand. The unusual mortality rate has prompted a temporary, two-week closure of the popular tourist attraction while authorities investigate the cause of the deaths.
Investigation Underway
The privately-managed Tiger Kingdom immediately restricted visitor access and initiated a full disinfection of its facilities. Carcasses have been sent to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Chiang Mai University for laboratory testing, according to local livestock officials. The deaths began occurring on February 8th, according to reports from the Bangkok Post on February 21, 2026.
Initial Suspicions
Initial suspicions have focused on raw chicken meat supplied by a private farm as a potential source of the problem. However, authorities emphasize that the definitive cause of death remains undetermined pending laboratory results. Surviving tigers have been relocated to a Tiger Kingdom care center in Mae Taeng for intensive monitoring.
Broader Implications
Kritsayarm Kongsatri, Director of Regional Protection Area Office 16 (Chiang Mai), confirmed receiving reports of approximately 70 tiger deaths at the park, describing the scale of the loss as “very unusual.” A formal investigation is being overseen by the Chiang Mai Provincial Livestock Office, with support from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.
Rumors have circulated regarding a veterinarian involved in the necropsies falling ill and being isolated as a precautionary measure, raising concerns about a possible avian influenza outbreak. However, officials have not yet confirmed any link between the veterinarian’s illness and the tiger deaths.
Potential Next Steps
If the laboratory results confirm a link to the supplied chicken meat, it could lead to investigations into the farm’s practices and potential regulatory changes regarding animal feed for wildlife facilities. If the cause remains undetermined, further testing and monitoring of the surviving tigers is likely to continue. A prolonged investigation could negatively impact tourism to the region. It is also possible that the park will need to implement more stringent biosecurity measures to prevent future incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the closure of Tiger Kingdom?
The closure was prompted by the deaths of over 70 tigers within a month, necessitating a thorough investigation.
Who is investigating the tiger deaths?
The Chiang Mai Provincial Livestock Office is overseeing the investigation, with support from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.
What is the current status of the surviving tigers?
The surviving tigers have been moved to a Tiger Kingdom care center in Mae Taeng for intensive monitoring.
What role does Khum Sue Trakarn Co Ltd play in this situation?