The tiger is an endangered large carnivore that requires thousands of kilograms of prey and large undisturbed forest habitats to survive. Due to poaching, habitat loss, and human expansion, three tiger subspecies went extinct in the 20th century, and all remaining subspecies are endangered today. Conservation efforts need to involve protecting tiger habitats, spreading awareness about threats to tigers, being responsible tourists in wilderness areas, and advocating for stronger conservation policies.
5. The tiger is a large, territorial,
meat-eating animal that needs about
3000 kg of live prey every year and
undisturbed forests to live in. Any
attempts to save this charismatic
predator will only succeed if we have
a clear understanding of what tigers
need.
9. In the 1970's we came dangerously close to
losing forever one of the world most magnificent
creatures. Poaching, deforestation, and human
expansion brought all species of tiger to the
brink of extinction. Indeed, over the past century,
3 of the 8 sub-species that existed became
extinct; the Caspian, Javan and Balinese tigers.
Today, we are by no means out of the woods. All
remaining sub-species of tiger are endangered,
making the tiger species as a whole nearly
extinct.
10. Spread the word:
Tell others that the tiger
and its habitat are under threat
and that they need our help. You
can form forums (or join existing
ones) on the web for discussions
and exchange views on tiger
conservation. Schools can become
members of WWF-Indias NCI
(Nature Club of India) and reach
out to children. WWF-India can
help you in this regard.
11. Be a responsible tourist:
The wilderness is to be
experienced and not to be
disturbed and polluted. Follow
the forest department
guidelines when visiting any
wilderness area, tiger reserve in
particular. As the saying goes
Dont leave anything behind
except foot steps, and dont take
anything except memories.
12. Voice your concerns with the
policy makers:
If you are really concerned and
feel that more needs to be done
for tiger conservation, then
write polite letters to the
decision makers - the Prime
Minister, the Minister for
Environment and Forests or even
your local MP.