Gibbon in Khao Yai National Park Thailand Postcard

The white-handed gibbon (Hylobates lar), also known as the lar gibbon, is a strikingly agile primate native to Southeast Asia. In Thailand, Khao Yai National Park offers one of the best opportunities to observe these elusive creatures in the wild. These gibbons are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a diet that includes fruits, leaves, insects, and flowers. They are known for their impressive brachiation skills, swinging gracefully through the forest canopy with long, curved arms, and can cover distances of up to 15 metres in a single leap. Their distinctive vocalisations, often heard at dawn, serve to establish territory and communicate with other groups. Each family group has a unique call, contributing to the rich acoustic environment of the park. Khao Yai National Park, established in 1962, is Thailand's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning over 2,000 square kilometres, it encompasses tropical rainforests, grasslands, and waterfalls, providing a diverse habitat for wildlife. The park is home to both white-handed and pileated gibbons, with areas like the headwaters of the Takhong River serving as a contact zone where these species' ranges overlap. This unique overlap has led to hybridisation between the two species in the park. Visitors to Khao Yai can embark on guided treks through its trails to spot these gibbons, often catching sight of them in the early morning hours. Their presence adds to the park's reputation as a haven for biodiversity and a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts