WWF has declared that declining numbers of endangered wild tigers species have been somewhat restored from 3,200 to 3,980. The latest figures are based on IUCN data and latest national tiger surveys from India, Russia, Nepal, Bhutan and other countries.
World Wild Life organization announced the uplifting news through its official blog, stating that number of wild tigers is now increased to 3,890, which according to 2010 estimates were around 3,200. The blog also reported that the Global Tiger Forum (GTF) ahead of a major tiger conservation meeting tomorrow in New Delhi to be opened by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The WWF also reported that the increase in the number of wild tigers is being linked to multiple factors that allowed growth of the endangered species in India, Russia, Nepal, Bhutan and other countries where these animals live naturally. According to Marco Lambertini, Director General of WWF International, wild tiger species had been on the decline for decades and it was the first time in a long period they are observing positive figures. He added that the development will aid the cause of saving these species in which governments, local communities, and conservationists stand together.
Governments are actively contributing towards provided wild tigers a safe habitat together with entities and events like Global Tiger Conservation or GTC, Global Tiger Initiative, Tiger Summit and WWF. Global Tiger Initiative or TX2 first started in 2010 with an aim to double the wild tiger species by 2022. Now the latest figures at the occasion when 3rd Asia Ministerial Conference on Tiger Conservation is about to take place is a proof that the progress is happening.
Secretary General, Global Tiger Forum Dr. Rajesh Gopal said that the critical meeting will decide the next steps so sustainability of tigers can be ensured in Asia. During the 3-day meeting headed by Modi, the participating countries will present their report on TX2 mission and confirm their future plans about it.
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species classifies wild tigers as endangered species and the biggest threat is illegal wildlife traders and poachers. At least 1,590 tigers were recovered by law enforcers between January 2000 and April 2014, TRAFFIC estimated.
WWF will soon post the updates about the outcome of the meeting on wild tiger conservation and more countries will present their surveys. This video attempts to answer the big question about future of tigers.