Wildlife

Water monitors

The park's most famous residents are the Asian water monitors (Varanus salvator), large lizards that can grow to two metres or more. They swim slowly across the lake with only their heads above water, haul themselves out to bask on the banks, and sometimes climb the trees along the shore.

Monitors are scavengers and hunters: they eat fish, birds, eggs and carrion, and help keep the lake clean. They are wild animals but not aggressive towards people, and they will move away if given room. In 2016 their number was estimated at around 400, and the city relocated a number of the larger animals to a wildlife breeding centre in Ratchaburi province. Plenty remain, and you are almost certain to see them.

Birds

More than thirty bird species have been recorded in the park. Along the lake you can watch wading birds fishing at the water's edge, while the canopy is full of song.

Asian openbill

The Asian openbill (Anastomus oscitans) is a stork with a curious gap between its mandibles, an adaptation for prising apple snails from their shells. It is often seen along the lake shore.

Asian koel

Heard more often than seen: the rising ko-el, ko-el call of the male Asian koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) is one of the sounds of a Bangkok morning. The male is glossy black with a red eye.

Striated heron

The striated heron (Butorides striata) stands motionless on the banks, waiting for a fish to come within reach of its sharp bill.

Turtles, fish and others

Turtles live in the lake and are often seen surfacing to breathe or resting on the banks. The water also holds plenty of fish, which feed the monitors and the herons. Cats also live freely in the park.