Dozens of captive deers were released back into the wild to celebrate the birthday of the Thai King’s mother.

The 32 deers were released along with 70 white backed pheasants at the Mae Wong National Park in Kamphaeng Phet province to celebrate Queen Sirikit’s 89th birthday on August 12.

Wildlife staff gave the animals identifying collars and locators so their health and movements could be monitored before they are ushered to nearby mountains.

At first, the animals appeared confused about their new environment but they eventually went out on their own and explored the forest.

National park director Thawatchai Phetchaburan said: ‘The queen is concerned about the importance of conservation of natural resources so we did this activity on her birthday.’

The deers would be monitored closely by park rangers as they appeared the most hesitant in exploring their new home.

Some of them have stayed near the area where they were released while the birds have fled further into the forest.