Striped predators make rare appearances — and bring hope for the species
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In the forests of Asia between the trees, one of the world’s largest cats uses its vertical stripes to blend in.
Tigers are effective hunters and apex predators, but their populations have been pushed to the brink across their native lands.
“Tiger range has declined by a staggering 92%, with wild tigers living in only a fraction of the space they used to occupy,” the World Wildlife Fund told McClatchy News in an email.
Global Tiger Day is celebrated on July 29, according to the WWF, and marks an opportunity to recognize tiger population successes and learning moments from around the world. Take a look at some recent rare sightings and news from captive breeding programs.
‘Rare’ predator seen at Thailand reserve for first time in over 10 years, photo shows
In Kui Buri National Park, Thailand, a trail camera captured a rare sighting of an adult tiger, marking the park’s first such sighting in over a decade. This exciting discovery, attributed to ongoing conservation efforts, has raised hopes for the return of tigers to the area. The park is in southern Thailand, near the border with Myanmar. | Published Jan. 6 | Read More |
Adorable triplets make surprise appearances on trail cameras in Thailand. Watch them
In Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand, a Bengal tiger mother and her three cubs were unexpectedly spotted on trail cameras. This is the first time a tiger has been recorded raising three cubs in the park, which is home to a small breeding population of Bengal tigers. The park is the largest national park in Thailand, located between the Gulf of Thailand and the eastern border of Myanmar. | Published Feb. 4 | Read More |
Rare creature was elusive for years. Then it reappeared on trail camera — with cubs
In the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary in Thailand, a female tiger known as F22, who had been elusive for years, was spotted on trail cameras with her two cubs. This sighting, which occurred in February, indicates the success of conservation efforts in the area, as the mother and cubs appeared strong and healthy. The sanctuary, near the border with Myanmar, is home to a diverse array of wildlife, suggesting a thriving ecosystem. | Published April 1 | Read More |
Rare predator not seen in forest for years captured on trail camera in Thailand
In the Hala-Bala forest of Thailand’s Bang Lang National Park, a camera trap captured images of the critically endangered Malayan tiger, along with other elusive species. This sighting highlights the forest’s rich biodiversity and its ability to support various species. The Malayan tiger is found only on the Malaysian peninsula and Thailand’s southern forests. | Published May 9 | Read More |
Abandoned tiger cubs vanish from hiding spot in India. Trail cams give answers
At Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in India, two abandoned tiger cubs were discovered, but only one remained when the team arrived. Trail camera footage later confirmed that the mother returned to retrieve the cub, showcasing a successful case of wildlife conservation. The park is in eastern India near the disputed region of Arunachal Pradesh. | Published May 20 | Read More |
McClatchy News continues to follow rare animals, new behaviors and even new species. Check back for the latest stories.
This story was originally published July 29, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "Striped predators make rare appearances — and bring hope for the species."