Thai authorities initiated an investigation on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, following the deaths of 72 tigers at the private tourist animal park, Tiger Kingdom, in Chiang Mai. The felines, part of over 240 tigers, died within two weeks, primarily due to the highly contagious canine distemper virus, with a respiratory bacteria also detected. Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, Director of the Thai Livestock Department, confirmed samples were taken from the tigers, their food, and environment. The park has been temporarily closed for disinfection, and severely ill tigers were recommended for euthanasia. While no human infections occurred, park employees are under 21-day observation. Animal rights groups criticize these deaths, highlighting the vulnerability of captive tigers.