Runaway giraffes in Thailand
Images adapted from: Matichon, Sanook
Update, 30 Jan, 3pm: The remaining missing giraffe was unfortunately found dead in a pond, as reported by Coconuts Bangkok.
Earlier this week, drivers on Road 304 in Chachoengsao thought they were unknowingly in an open zoo when they saw 2 giraffes wandering on the road.
The giraffes were being transported in a truck, from Suvarnabhumi International Airport to a wildlife conservation centre in Prachin Buri, along with more than 20 other trucks. They were here from Africa as arranged by Safari World, one of the biggest zoos in Thailand.
Image credit: Matichon
The driver, Mr. Monthon Mongphet said that the giraffes had escaped the truck during heavy traffic at around 6pm. Turns out, the box’s lock was unhinged during transportation, which allowed these 2 guys to get out freely.
The truck with a giraffe’s cage
Image credit: Sanook
1 was found, another still on the run
Soon after, a group of veterinarians from a nearby zoo came to the scene. They successfully retrieved one of the giraffes safely with the help of some anaesthetic shots. However, the other long-necked pal, which is almost 7-metres tall, ran into the jungle near the road and still remains to be found.
Safari World assured the public that they have sent out vets and staff to find the runaway giraffe.
Image credit: Matichon
Thai netizens make light of the situation
After the news got out, many netizens have been shared their concern through memes and comments.
Translation: Fugitive?! What did he do wrong? LOL.
Translation: How sad. He’s basically a foreigner and not able to speak Thai. How could he ask the local animals for directions?
Translation: This news is a good break from the Coronavirus reports.
Translation: He’s here guys!
Translation: Someone might have adopted this ‘stray’ giraffe already.
Thai netizens really do have a sense of humour! In all seriousness, we really hope that the staff will find the missing giraffe soon – for his own and humans’ safety.
If you cross paths with him, don’t hesitate to alert the local authorities or dial 191.