No, feeding wild pigeons in Thailand violates the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562 (2019), as it disrupts natural foraging behavior and may constitute unauthorized interference under Section 18. Local ordinances in Bangkok and Chiang Mai further restrict such activities in public parks, citing public health risks and nuisance complaints. Penalties include fines up to 40,000 THB or imprisonment under the 2026 enforcement amendments.
Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in Thailand
- Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562 (2019): Prohibits feeding wild animals without a permit, classifying pigeons as protected species under Schedule II.
- Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Ordinance No. 11 (2023): Bans feeding birds in public parks, citing sanitation concerns and structural damage to monuments.
- Chiang Mai Provincial Regulation (2024): Restricts feeding in temple precincts and historic sites, with enforcement by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
Local authorities, including the DNP and municipal police, conduct periodic crackdowns, particularly in tourist-heavy zones. Exemptions require prior approval from provincial wildlife committees, with strict conditions on food type and quantity. Violators face escalating penalties, including community service under the 2026 amendments.