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India is home to 1/3 of the world's remaining Bengal tigers, 1,411 cats in all. It's estimated that the population of tigers was 100,000 at the turn of the century, so the population has declined by about 99 percent during that time. Out of the few remaining cats, a recent count found that 18 were missing, murdered by poachers according to a story in National Geographic's Adventure magazine. With so few remaining, 18 is an enormous issue.
The best way to stop poachers is to reduce the need for their product which was the case when tiger trade was banned internationally and by the domestic laws of many countries, including China. By 1993 the trade of tiger parts had decreased dramatically, according to the Save the Tiger Fund. But in 2005, entire populations of tigers began to mysteriously disappear again in India. The disappearance was later linked, in large part, to a resurgence in demand for tiger skins, which are used as clothing and décor. The persistent demand for tiger bone, which is used in traditional Asian health remedies, also likely contributed to the decline.
What you can do to save the Bengal Tiger
Donate to the Save the Tiger Fund. The group focuses on eliminating the consumption of tigers; as well as building recognition and support to make wild tigers valuable to humans. You can also report poaching crimes to Project Tiger.
More on Endangered Species:
AP Reports Proposal to Drastically Alter Endangered Species Act
Why Doesn't British Columbia Protect Endangered Species?
Four Worst Places to be an Endangered Species
Quiz: Do You Know Your Endangered Species?
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