The tiger is the largest member of the cat family (Felidae), rivaled only by the lion (Panthera leo) in strength and ferocity. This animal is endangered throughout its geographical range, which stretches from the Russian Far East through parts of North Korea, China, India, and Southeast Asia to the Indonesian island of Sumatra. About 4,500 tigers remain in the wild, but much more work is needed to protect this species if we are to secure its future in the wild. In some areas, including much of Southeast Asia, tigers are still in crisis and declining in numbers.
If the tigers go extinct, the entire system would collapse. From the world's largest mangrove forests in the Sundarbans, to the snowy mountains in Northeast China and Russia, protecting wild tigers and their natural homes provides benefits for thousands of species and millions of people.
As top predators, wild tigers play an important role in maintaining the harmony of the planet's ecosystems. By preying on herbivores, tigers help to keep the balance between the prey animals and the forest vegetation which they feed upon.
Therefore, it's not just about saving a beautiful animal. It is about making sure that our well being is maintained as the forests are known to provide ecological services like clean air, water, pollination, and temperature regulation.
Coded by Audre Booker