Long-term biodiversity monitoring on Koh Phra Thong
Researchers from the
Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum
,
Prince of Songkla University, conduct long-term biodiversity monitoring on Koh Phra Thong,
Phang Nga Province, to document species of conservation concern and generate scientific evidence
for ecosystem management.
A significant outcome of this programme was the documentation of the
Pale-capped Pigeon (Columba punicea), a
Vulnerable (VU) species on the IUCN Red List 2025.
This migratory pigeon is rarely recorded in Thailand, particularly along the Andaman coast,
making its return to Koh Phra Thong an important conservation record.
Community landscapes as seasonal habitats
IUCN Red List 2025 · Vulnerable
A flock of 6–7 individuals was observed feeding on fruiting trees within a local village,
highlighting the importance of community landscapes as seasonal habitats for threatened migratory birds.
Local residents also reported that the species had been absent for several years before reappearing
when native fruiting trees were available, illustrating the close relationship between habitat quality
and wildlife persistence.
- Species
- Pale-capped Pigeon · Columba punicea
- Conservation status
- Vulnerable (VU) — IUCN Red List 2025
- Site
- Koh Phra Thong, Phang Nga Province
- Organisation
- PSUNHM · Prince of Songkla University
This long-term monitoring programme provides essential information for the conservation of
threatened species, supports the sustainable management of coastal forest ecosystems, and
strengthens collaboration between scientists and local communities to protect biodiversity
on Koh Phra Thong.
