PUBLISHED : 23 Dec 2025 at 06:14
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A liger is a hybrid animal resulting from the mating of a male lion and a female tiger, both belonging to different species within the same genus (Panthera). Sriayuthaya Lion Park Facebook Page
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has issued a new regulation designating ligers (male lion–female tiger hybrids) and tigons (male tiger–female lion hybrids) as regulated wildlife species which require official possession permits under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act.
The move is meant to close legal gaps, enhance animal welfare protections, and improve public safety.
Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), explained that the ministry’s announcement — Notification on Controlled Wildlife Species Requiring Declaration of Possession (No.2) — was meant to address a longstanding loophole.
Previously, hybrids such as ligers and tigons were not classified as regulated species requiring registration, allowing individuals to keep them without permits or oversight, which created risks in terms of animal care, safety, and traceability.
Ligers, in particular, are often larger than the typical big cats and may suffer from genetic health issues. By classifying them as regulated species, authorities can now monitor housing conditions, enforce safety standards, and ensure proper welfare management, reducing risks to both owners and surrounding communities.
Mr Atthaphon added that another important reason is to prevent fraudulent claims. In the past, tiger cubs were sometimes misrepresented as ligers or tigons to evade registration requirements. Mandatory declaration of possession will now allow officials to verify the origin and legal status of such animals.
The announcement aligns with the policy of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin, who pledged to close legal loopholes, strengthen wildlife conservation law enforcement, and safeguard animal welfare and public safety.
The regulation was published in the Royal Gazette on Dec 18 and will take effect 60 days later, on Feb 16.