Tiger Conservation in Myanmar: A Beacon of Hope in Southeast Asia
Myanmar stands out as a shining example of tiger conservation in Southeast Asia, despite facing numerous domestic challenges. The country has successfully maintained a population of around 20 Bengal tigers, also known as Indian tigers, thanks to its effective conservation program.
A Remarkable Commitment to Conservation
Experts estimate that there are only 5,711 Bengal tigers in the world as of last year, after many of the big cats fell victim to poaching for their body parts. Myanmar’s governments have prioritized protecting the charismatic tigers at the Htamathi Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the northern Sagaing region, where armed conflicts are ongoing.
A Strong Commitment to Tiger Conservation
Dr. Rajesh Gopal, secretary-general of the Global Tiger Forum (GTF), praised Myanmar’s efforts, saying, "It is good news that Myanmar managed to have these numbers and their recovery plans are remarkable. They are sustaining themselves. They will spring back with the tiger population because they have a strong commitment to tiger conservation."
Conservation Efforts
Myanmar state media reported that local forest department workers are protecting the tigers and monitoring their population diligently. The Htamathi Wildlife Sanctuary boasts Bengal tigers, bears, mammals, and birds, and the forest department has installed 24 camera traps in 12 locations to track the movement of the tigers.
A Global Effort
Myanmar, which shares a 1,643-kilometer land border with India’s northeastern states, is one of GTF’s early members to join in 1994. India has the world’s largest tiger population with 3,682 big cats. The Bengal tiger is an endangered species in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List.
Southeast Asia’s Tiger Corridor
The major tiger corridor covers India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Thailand, and Vietnam. In Southeast Asia, as of October last year, Indonesia leads the pact with 393 tigers, Thailand (201) and Malaysia (150). Cambodia and Vietnam have lost their stock, and their governments are investing in conservation programs to revive the tiger population.
Challenges and Solutions
The number of Bengal tigers is on the decline worldwide due to rapid urbanization, habitat loss, and poaching. Their claws, bones, teeth, claws, and skin are often used in the preparation of traditional medicine. Dr. Rajesh emphasized the need for Myanmar to implement measures to protect its tigers, including working with armed forces to protect the forest, engaging local people to promote community stewardship, and providing safe habitats.
Conclusion
Myanmar’s commitment to tiger conservation is a beacon of hope in Southeast Asia. The country’s efforts have paid off, and its strong conservation program has helped maintain a population of around 20 Bengal tigers. However, there is still much work to be done to protect these majestic animals and their habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many Bengal tigers are left in the world?
A: Experts estimate that there are only 5,711 Bengal tigers in the world as of last year.
Q: What is the main threat to Bengal tigers?
A: The main threats to Bengal tigers are poaching for their body parts, habitat loss, and rapid urbanization.
Q: What is Myanmar doing to protect its tigers?
A: Myanmar is prioritizing protecting its tigers at the Htamathi Wildlife Sanctuary, installing camera traps to track their movement, and engaging local people to promote community stewardship.
Q: What is the Global Tiger Forum doing to help conserve tigers?
A: The Global Tiger Forum is committed to promoting global campaigns to save tigers, their prey, and their habitats.