Three more possible dinosaur footprints found in Udon Thani forest

UDON THANI — 19 October 2026, Officials have found three additional possible dinosaur footprints at Phu Hin Chom That Phu Phra Bat National Park in Ban Phue district, bringing the total to four, as Thailand’s Department of Mineral Resources prepares to inspect the site.

The discovery began when visitors to Tat Noi Waterfall found a footprint-like impression near the headwaters of Huai Yai stream inside the park and shared photos online, sparking speculation that it could be a dinosaur track.

Reporters visited the site with park chief Winai Thongpan. The area is part of a dry evergreen forest covering more than 200 rai, about 32 hectares, and is located around 500 metres from the park office.

Large rock formations line the route and the banks of Huai Yai stream, which feeds Tat Noi Waterfall. Officials identified a three-toed impression measuring approximately 32 centimetres long and 32 centimetres wide.

During the visit, officials found three more possible footprints, bringing the total to four. The impressions are spaced about 80 centimetres apart. The first is the clearest, while the other three are less distinct.

Winai said the discovery could be significant because it may represent the first dinosaur footprints found in Udon Thani province. The Department of Mineral Resources is scheduled to send specialists to examine the site on 20 October.

Preliminary estimates suggest the tracks may have been made by a carnivorous dinosaur standing about two to three metres tall and dating back at least 130 million years. However, Winai stressed that these are initial assessments and that experts must verify the footprints before any conclusions can be reached.

If confirmed, the discovery could open up opportunities for further research and potentially help develop the area into a new attraction for visitors interested in dinosaurs and prehistoric life.