Drawings of Tigers by Team 2

The Endangered Tiger

Tigers are an endangered species. They live in Asia in a variety of habitats from tropical evergreen to the deciduous forests of southern Asia and eastern Russia. Tigers survive in small populations because every tiger lives separate from the other tigers. Three of the eight original subspecies are already extinct.

Tigers are endangered because of the loss of habitat. Humans are clearing forests for the timber and to ease the stress of population growth. By doing so, tigers have less and less room to live and hide from poachers. Also, tiger parts are sold and used for traditional medicine. Parts like bone, blood and skins are highly priced. A tiger is worth at least $60,000. There is no proof that the medicines made from tigers’ parts actually work. Examples:

In 1972 the World Wildlife Fund joined up with the Indian government to save the dying tigers. This project was called “Operation Tiger”. They plan to interrupt the trading in Bengal tiger parts. In 1993 alone, 1100 pounds (300kg) of tiger’s bones were confiscated in New Delhi. Conservationists are still working hard to get up more reserves so the tiger population will increase in the future.

What You Can Do

Luckily, there is still hope. You can help to keep these creatures alive and protect them from being endangered. First of all, try not to waste natural resources. Recycle your garbage if you can. By recycling, you’re helping to save many trees from being cut down for paper. These trees then can remain homes for many animals and plants in the wild. Don’t pollute the environment and keep your neighborhood clean. This can prevent any accidental death of animals and plants. Don’t buy anything like leather belts, fur coats and any other products that come from animals. By buying these products you are supporting the hunters, manufacturers and the idea of killing animals so you can look pretty. If you can, contribute to organizations that help to protect our wild life. This is very important. With your contributions, conservationists can get the necessary equipment and then try to help save these animals and plants. Last, and most important, is to learn about these creatures. Get to know them better and create an interest in them because they are so wonderful. Not only get to know them but get involved in saving them. With your help, these beautiful creatures don’t have to become extinct or even endangered.



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