What's Happening?
A report by TRAFFIC highlights a severe global trafficking crisis affecting tiger populations, with an average of nine tigers seized monthly over the past five years. The wild tiger population has drastically
reduced from 100,000 a century ago to an estimated 3,700-5,500. The report indicates that criminal networks are evolving faster than conservation efforts, with a significant increase in whole animal trafficking linked to captive-breeding operations and exotic pet ownership.
Why It's Important?
The trafficking crisis poses a critical threat to biodiversity and conservation efforts. Tigers are a keystone species, and their decline can disrupt ecosystems and lead to broader environmental consequences. The report calls for enhanced international cooperation and intelligence-led enforcement to combat organized crime networks involved in wildlife trafficking. Addressing this issue is vital to preserving global biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.
