AI-generated animal ‘rescues’ of kittens during Thailand’s floods trigger warning over online misinformation
Amid severe flooding in southern Thailand, a series of fantastical “animal rescue” photos went viral — but Thai PBS has now confirmed the images were created by AI, not real-life heroics.
- Thai PBS confirmed that the viral photos of animals rescuing cats during floods were entirely AI-generated, not real rescue scenes.
- The broadcaster urged the public to verify images before sharing, noting the pictures showed impossible scenarios such as crocodiles and snakes safely carrying kittens.
- Thai PBS provided guidance on how to spot AI-generated images, including checking sources, examining image quality and backgrounds, and cross-referencing with official news.
THAILAND: As severe flooding hits southern Thailand, social media has exploded with astonishing images showing various animals — from dogs to crocodiles, hippos and giant pythons — “rescuing” kittens from rising waters.
The photos, widely shared across Facebook and X, show predators gently lifting cats into rescue boats, prompting disbelief and admiration online.
Thai PBS issues official clarification
On 24 November, Thai PBS stepped in to clarify that all the images were created using artificial intelligence.
The broadcaster posted the viral pictures alongside a firm reminder urging the public to verify content before sharing, especially during disaster situations when misinformation spreads rapidly.
Scenes ‘impossible in real life’, says broadcaster
In one AI-created image, a crocodile appears to hold a kitten safely in its jaws; in another, a hippo pushes a cat toward rescuers.
Thai PBS said such scenes are “biologically impossible” and confirmed no such rescue operations had taken place.
How to spot AI-generated photos
The broadcaster also offered tips to help viewers identify AI content:
- Check the original source and publication date
- Look for distorted backgrounds, inconsistent lighting, or unnatural animal anatomy
- Inspect images for watermarks or signs of digital creation
- Cross-check with official news during emergencies
Warning against misinformation during crises
Thai PBS stressed that misleading images can distract from real rescue efforts and compromise public understanding of genuine emergencies.
The broadcaster urged users to prioritise accuracy over virality and to remain vigilant when encountering dramatic visuals online.
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