Will the tiger live to see the Year of the Tiger in 2022?

"Tigers all over the world are under threat from poaching, loss of habitat and conflict with nearby human populations. Now, the Sumatran tiger is on the brink of extinction.".

(Source: Dr. Susan Lieberman, Director, WWF International Species Programme WWF.com)

The World Wildlife Fund says we have lost 97% of our wild tigers this century: “With as few as 3,200 remaining, the scientists say tigers could be extinct in the wild by the next Chinese Year of the Tiger in 2022”. Tigers face many threats. They are desired for their beautiful skin to decorate houses, as souvenirs and for use in traditional medicine.

Hunting for sport led to a massive decline in the early part of the 20th century, and in the latter part illegal hunting and habitat loss were the major threats. Now it is poaching, TRAFFIC (the wildlife trade monitoring network) says that “Tigers remain in serious danger from illegal wildlife trade mainly for their bones for use in traditional Asian medicines, and for their pelts and other body parts, such as teeth, skin and claws, as decorative items”.

Wild Tigers in India

According to Tigers in Crisis most conservationists agree that strong protection of wildlife reserves has been the key to the endangered tiger's survival so far: “It is vital, however, that wildlife conservation and habitat protection are not isolated solutions, but an important part of a multifaceted tiger survival strategy”.

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But there are also captive marine mammals to consider. The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) believes that regulations in the U.S. are lacking as it is still legal to capture dolphins: “There is no law in the United States that is specifically designed to protect the welfare of dolphins,” which leaves a massive loop hole for the continued exploitation and abuse of dolphins.

“It is vital, however, that wildlife conservation and habitat protection are not isolated solutions, but an important part of a multifaceted tiger survival strategy”

(Source: Tigers in Crisis)

There is still plenty we can do to help:

Donate to one of the organizations that are dedicated to protecting tigers and tiger habitats, including funding anti-poaching patrols.

Choose not to purchase any product made with tiger parts.

Look for the certified forest product labels when you are buying paper and wood products.

Buy any products that are made with certified sustainable palm oil.

Tell your family and friends to do the same things.

Please learn more about global warming, and the decline of the forests. Teach your children and others about the importance of reducing waste, pollution and greenhouse gases.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Tigers.

Lucy Brake: Writer & Editor

Sharon Haddox: Writer, Editor & Designer
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