Flocks of hornbills and herds of gaurs recently seen in Khao Yai National Park, have been heralded as symptomatic of a recovery in the park's wildlife.
National park chief Adisak Phusitwongsanuyut said the park has worked with the aviation division by using helicopters to help deploy 33 officials on 11 flights to scour the forest for four days.
"Hundreds of hornbills were seen flying near the helicopter, while herds of gaurs were spotted on the field. Also, this discovery showed the abundance now present in the forest. Many officials have put a lot of effort into protecting this forest as a treasure for all Thais," said Mr Adisak.
The move was part of a policy by Thanya Netithammakun, director-general of the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, to suppress illegal activities in the area. It is expected that park officials will complete their patrols of the area next year, Mr Adisak said.
He said that 87.7% of Khao Yai has now been surveyed and the air support has boosted the morale of the unit.
The park was named a World Heritage Site in 2005.