Humans have caused tigers to disappear from 93% of their
former range and destroyed much of their habitat. Extensive
habitat loss and fragmentation has forced tigers to live in small,
isolated pockets of remaining habitat, making it harder for tigers
to reproduce. Increased road networks and reduced habitat size also
leave tigers more exposed to poachers. The expansion of human
activities in tiger habitat has led to over hunting of tiger prey
species.
Consumer demand for tiger parts poses the largest threat to tiger survival. Tigers are being hunted to extinction by poachers for their skins, bones, teeth and claws, which are highly valued for their use in traditional Asian medicine (TAM), various folk remedies and various products. The wildlife trade network, TRAFFIC, found that for the past two years, the smuggled parts from at least 200 tigers have been confiscated per year by law enforcement in Asia.
The two largest threats to tigers are the lack of habitat and the encroachment of humans, and illegal poaching. Our first efforts are dedicated to saving tiger habitat by encouraging conservation of the forests in which they live. Tigers survive in some of the last great forests of Asia, which are critical not only for their biodiversity but also as stores of carbon that would end up released into the atmosphere if these forests were cut down. By protecting tiger habitat, we help mitigate climate change.
The only things that will save the tigers is to protect their habitat through efforts to increase sustainable forestry practices in Asia, and an end to poaching.
The other aspect of protecting the tigers is to end the demand for tiger parts. Ramp up anti-poaching measures, inform and move consumers of tiger products to change their habits, and maintain and enforce the laws banning tiger products.
Copyright 2011