CHONBURI, THAILAND – The architect behind Khao Kheow Open Zoo’s famed ‘Giant Bird Cage’ has spoken publicly for the first time in years, sharing emotional memories of working under the patronage of Her Royal Majesty Queen Mother Sirikit.
Honouring a royal legacy
At 78 years old, Mr. Chai na Kwangkaeo, former deputy director and chief civil engineering architect of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, looked back on a career spanning more than four decades. He described the construction of the massive open-air aviary—one of Thailand’s most recognisable zoological landmarks—as both a technical ordeal and a heartfelt tribute.
The ‘Giant Bird Cage’, as visitors fondly call it, became a symbol of the Queen Mother’s compassion and Thailand’s growing commitment to wildlife conservation. When the zoo opened the structure on July 29, 1983, Her Majesty personally presided over the ceremony, a day Mr. Chai na said would remain forever etched in his memory.
HE RECALLED WITH EMOTION: “I WAS OVERWHELMED WITH IMMENSE PRIDE TO SERVE HER MAJESTY.”
Building through hardship
Back in the early 1980s, the project site in Chonburi Province was remote and difficult to reach. Roads were scarce, forcing workers to haul construction materials by oxcart across rugged terrain. Mr. Chai na remembered that stage vividly.
“We hauled everything up by cart until it was complete,” he said. “Every team member gave their best effort so we could create something worthy of national pride.”
Despite these obstacles, the aviary stood as a testament to perseverance and teamwork, eventually becoming a touchstone of Thailand’s zoological development.
A symbol of conservation for generations
Over the decades, Khao Kheow Open Zoo evolved into one of the country’s most established conservation-oriented attractions, welcoming thousands of visitors from Thailand and abroad each year. The aviary, originally designed as a space for people to walk among tropical bird species, remains a highlight and a living embodiment of Queen Sirikit’s vision.
Mr. Chai na expressed his gratitude that the site continues to “blossom” as Her Majesty intended, creating joy and teaching younger generations about environmental stewardship and compassion for living creatures.
Nationwide mourning and reflection
As Thais mourned the passing of Her Royal Majesty Queen Mother Sirikit, the architect said he shared the nation’s sorrow while reflecting on how his life’s work intertwined with her royal benevolence.
He emphasized that the aviary is more than an architectural achievement—it is an enduring tribute to the Queen Mother’s dedication to nature and her unwavering kindness.
HE SAID SOFTLY: “FROM THAT DAY FORWARD, THE GIANT BIRD CAGE BECAME A SYMBOL OF HER COMPASSION AND A TESTAMENT TO HER VISION.”
Today, the structure still anchors Khao Kheow Open Zoo’s identity, reminding visitors that even the most challenging projects can grow into monuments of national pride and shared humanity.
• Built in 1983 under Royal Patronage of Queen Mother Sirikit
• Designed by Mr. Chai na Kwangkaeo, then deputy director of the zoo
• Constructed without paved roads, relying on oxcarts and manual labour
• Remains a major attraction promoting conservation and public education