International Tiger Day

Tigers are more than symbols of power and beauty. They are vital to the health of forests. Yet their future is in peril.

International Tiger Day, marked on July 29, raises awareness about the threats facing wild tigers. The day was first observed in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit, where 13 countries pledged to double wild tiger numbers by 2022. This goal, known as Tx2, remains a global conservation benchmark.

The Crisis

Over the past century, wild tiger populations have dropped by over 95%. Their historic range has shrunk to just 7%. Deforestation, illegal trade, and human conflict are the main drivers. Fewer than 4,000 wild tigers remain today.

Tigers help control prey populations and maintain ecological balance. Healthy tiger numbers signal a healthy forest ecosystem.

Nepal’s Conservation Story

Nepal is a global leader in tiger conservation. In 2009, the country had 121 wild tigers. By 2022, the number rose to 355. This success was driven by strong anti-poaching laws, scientific monitoring, community participation, and protected areas like Chitwan, Bardia, Shuklaphanta, and Parsa.

Nepal’s approach, combining local engagement and technology, has become a model for other countries.

What We Can Do

Tiger conservation is a shared responsibility. Here is how individuals can contribute:

• Support trusted wildlife conservation organizations
• Avoid products made from endangered species
• Educate others about the role of tigers in nature
• Promote responsible, wildlife-friendly tourism
• Support forest protection policies and local communities

Looking Ahead

Saving tigers is about more than saving a species. It is about preserving entire ecosystems and the livelihoods they support. Tigers are an umbrella species. Protecting them protects many others.

As we observe International Tiger Day, let us commit to a future where tigers still roam free. Their roar must echo through living forests, not just through history.