Save Tigers From Extinction

Tigers are in serious trouble.

As popular and loved as they are, these Asian big cats are faced with annihilation.

According to Greenpeace, there are only 400 Sumatran tigers left in the world.

On the Verge of Extinction

Tigers are prey for illegal traders and poachers. These wild cats are forced to compete for space with humans as a result of the deforestation of their natural habitat.

Three species of tigers have already become extinct in the last 70 years: Bali, Caspian and Javan.

There are only six remaining species and they are on the verge of extinction due to poaching and habitat loss.

The World Wildlife Fund provides ways you can help.  Here is a link to their website: World Wildlife Fund

We Can Save Them by Stopping the Threat

The largest threat to the tiger population is poaching. Poaching of their body parts used in folk and traditional medicines is the leading direct threat to the Asian cat population.

For at least 1,000 years, tiger bones have been used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Tiger claws, whiskers, and teeth are believed to have protective and good luck powers. Tiger skins have also been used for clothing.

However, scientific research studies have found that current medicines perform better than the traditional medical practices of using tiger body parts.

And there’s no real need for tiger skins since people can afford to purchase clothes.

Human destruction, degrading, and fragmentation of the tiger’s habitat for roads, agriculture and timber has forced these animals into small areas making it more difficult for them to survive.

Large scale destruction of the their habitat has left them with only 7 percent of their original historic range.

As the human population grows and encroaches into natural habitats, tigers and people will compete for living space and food.

No Cost Ways You Can Help

The World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace are non-profit organizations protecting environments, humans and wildlife for our benefit and the benefit of others.  We all need support in protecting and enhancing our lives.

You can also make a difference with your purchasing power.  Tiger habitats are lost in many countries due to the pulp and paper industries.

Buy recycled paper and FSC-certified wood products. 

Stay informed and make smart choices when buying products on vacation.

Avoid purchasing endangered wildlife products.