Saving the Last Wild Tigers

Saving the Last Wild Tigers

Introduction Tigers are some of the most powerful animals in the world. That's why you might be surprised to learn that these huge cats are in big trouble. They are in danger of dying out completely. But many people around the world are trying to save them.

Why Tigers Are Important Tigers are among Earth's most beautiful animals. They are also important members of the habitats where they live. They help keep nature in balance. Tigers eat hoofed animals such as deer and wild pigs. Without tigers, these animals would eat too many plants. Then other animals that need the plants for food and shelter would suffer.

Disappearing Tigers Long ago, nine types of tigers lived across large parts of Asia. During the 1900s, three types became extinct. Now a fourth type of tiger is probably extinct in the wild. One hundred years ago, more than 100, 000 wild tigers were alive. Now, only about 3, 500 live in the wild. All remaining types of tigers are endangered.

Buying, Selling, and Poaching The biggest reason that tigers are endangered is the buying and selling of tiger body parts for money. To get these body parts, some people poach, or break the law and kill wild tigers. Why do people want tiger body parts? For many centuries, some Chinese medicines used tiger bones and other body parts. Some people thought that these medicines would help cure certain illnesses. They believed that a tiger's strength could heal people.

Most Chinese medicines do not use tiger parts. But some companies still make medicines from tiger parts. Criminals can make a lot of money by selling dead tigers to these companies. Selling tiger products has been against the law in China since 1993. And most countries around the world have agreed not to buy or sell tiger parts or products. But poaching continues. Poachers care more about making money than about protecting endangered animals.