Story perspectives

Thailand's First Rewilding: Indo-Pacific Leopard Sharks Released

1/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

The StAR Project Thailand released a young Indo-Pacific leopard shark on January 26 near Maiton Island, marking Thailand's first rewilding release.
Seven sharks bred in aquariums have trained for survival in the wild.
The effort aims to restore the endangered population, reduced by overfishing and habitat loss.
Project manager Metavee Chuangcharoendee of the StAR Project Thailand says long-term success requires habitat protection and pollution reduction, plus regular sightings and wild breeding.

1 of 1

Story summary

The StAR Project Thailand released a young Indo-Pacific leopard shark on January 26 near Maiton Island, marking Thailand's first rewilding release.
Seven sharks bred in aquariums have trained for survival in the wild.
The effort aims to restore the endangered population, reduced by overfishing and habitat loss.
Project manager Metavee Chuangcharoendee of the StAR Project Thailand says long-term success requires habitat protection and pollution reduction, plus regular sightings and wild breeding.