The beauty and majestic presence of tigers, their vibrant stripes, and commanding aura have always enthralled the world. Tigers are a charismatic species, playing an important role in cultures around the globe, and are considered an umbrella species, with their conservation also protecting a large number of other species. Sadly, these magnificent creatures are facing a high risk of extinction.
Understanding the Concern
It’s an alarming fact that tigers are currently on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, with three of the nine tiger sub-species already extinct. In the past century, the global wild tiger population has declined by a staggering 95%, from an estimated 100,000 to less than 3,900 remaining today.
Reasons For The Extinction
The major factors contributing to the fall in the tiger population have to do with human activity. Here's an examination of the root causes:
1. Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: The body parts and bones of tigers are often used in traditional medicine, especially in Asian cultures. Despite bans and strict laws against such practices, illegal wildlife trafficking continues, making this the most immediate threat to the survival of tigers.
2. Habitat Loss: Tiger can be found from the Russian Far East to Sumatra and mainland Southeast Asia. While human populations expand, forests are cleared for agricultural purposes, human settlements, and infrastructure development. Tigers have lost 93% of their natural habitat due to these actions, and many tigers are pushed into small, isolated areas of their former range, where they face a lack of prey.
3. Human-Tiger Conflict: Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, tigers often come into conflict with humans. This conflict typically ends badly for tigers, which are often killed in retaliation or safety measures.
4. Population Fragmentation: With their habitats shrinking, tiger populations are becoming fragmented, which hampers breeding and increases the risk of inbreeding.
5. Climate Change: Rising sea levels are threatening the survival of tigers, especially the Sunderbans population, by inundating the coastal habitats they inhabit.
To help the fight against tiger extinction.The ongoing decline in tiger populations is an international crisis. Annually International Tiger Day is on the 29th of July. However, there are many ways we can help:Awareness: Knowledge is power. Spreading information about the plight of tigers and the importance of their survival can make a significant difference.
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Go to www.wwf.org.uk where you can find out about all endangered animals and give donations.
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