Thai Restaurant Hit by Repeat Elephant Raids

Thai Restaurant Hit by Repeat Elephant Raids

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, April 5, 2025 — A wild elephant has repeatedly raided a restaurant near Khao Yai National Park, highlighting growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict in areas bordering protected forests.

The elephant, known locally as Plai Biang Lek, most recently entered the PenLaos restaurant on April 3, searching for food and causing damage, according to Thai media reports. The incident marked the third time in less than a month that the same animal had targeted the location.

The first reported intrusion occurred on March 11, when the elephant damaged outdoor furniture and destroyed a fruit display, apparently drawn by the smell of fresh food. It returned again on March 13, entering a nearby morning market where it broke glass displays, dented counters and scattered food while attempting to eat.

The repeated visits underscore increasing pressure on wildlife habitats, particularly during the dry season when food and water sources in forests become scarce.

Conservation groups say more elephants are venturing outside protected areas in search of sustenance, raising risks for both local communities and the animals themselves.

Experts have called for improved management of natural resources within forest areas, as well as measures to reduce food attractants in nearby settlements.

Authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation, as similar incidents have been reported in communities surrounding Khao Yai National Park.