January 2024 - Celebration Issue

JANUARY 26, 2024

The Exotic Wildlife Thriving on

Thailand’s Golf Courses Story by Colin White

Image by Giulia Bossi/Laguna Golf Phuket

I n addition to reptiles, golfers Thailand’s golf courses attract many native and migratory birds due to the abundance of trees, wetlands and open spaces. From colorful kingfishers to majestic egrets, birdwatching plays an enchanting part of playing golf in this tropical paradise. While it is important for may encounter a wide array of bird species during their rounds. everyone to respect and appreciate the wildlife they may encounter, it is equally vital to ensure the safety of both humans and the animals. Golf course management teams across the country prioritize conservation efforts by implementing measures to protect the natural habitats of these creatures while ensuring the well being of players and staff. So the next time you are out on a golf course in Thailand, take time to appreciate the amazing wildlife that shares the fairways with you. Embarking on a golfing journey of encountering snakes, monitor lizards, tropical birds and even elephants can transform your golfing experience into a remarkable adventure, immersed in the beauty of nature.

T hailand’s world renowned golf courses are not only a paradise for golf enthusiasts but also serve as a haven for captivating wildlife. Amidst the lush fairways and greens players may encounter a diverse range of creatures that inhabit these unique ecosystems. From slithering snakes to mighty monitor lizards, golfers can find themselves playing alongside some fascinating wildlife.

O ne of the most prominent With over 200 species of snake in Thailand, if you are a regular golfer then you will certainly encounter one of these elegant yet formidable creatures while navigating the fairways….or the rough! Venomous snakes like cobras and vipers can occasionally be spotted but in general they are non aggressive and tend to avoid human contact. Nevertheless, it would be advised to be extremely cautious if you do encounter a snake and alert the golf course authorities as soon as possible. The reptile that steals the reptilian residents in Thailand is of course the snake. show on Thailand’s golf courses has to be the prehistoric monitor

lizard. Known for their massive size these modern day dinosaurs can be found basking in the sun near to water hazards or within the dense vegetation nearby. They can grow to over 2 meters in length and will more than likely run away if you get too close but it would be a good idea to keep a safe distance from these majestic creatures. The presence of these reptiles is testament to the rich biodiversity that thrives in the golf course environments across Thailand. These magnificent creatures play a key role in maintaining a healthy ecological balance and coexist in harmony with the golfing communities.

Image by Micah Woods/ASIAN Turfgrass Center

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THAILAND ONE

Image by Wangjuntr Golf Park

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