NAKHON RATCHASIMA: The carcass of a gaur has been found by local villagers in a forest in this northeastern province.
The carcass was found in an area adjoining tambon Chorakhe Hin of Khon Buri district and tambon Thai Samakkhi in Wang Nam Khieo district, and was subsequently reported to the authorities at the Thap Lan National Park.
On Sunday, about 10 national park officials and local leaders, led by Prawatsart Chanthep, chief of the Thap Lan National Park, went to Khlong Samet forest to investigate.
Parts of the carcass including the bones, the skull and the skin -- all dried up -- were found scattered around an area. There were signs that meat had been cut from the bones, but no bullet wound was seen.
It was initially believed the remains were of a female gaur, about 10-15 years old, that died at least a month ago.
The cause of death was yet to be determined.
After taking some samples of the remains for an examination, the officials decided to burn the carcass.
Mr Prawatsart ordered national park officials to keep the area off-limits to outsiders pending further investigation.