No room to roam. Tigers live on their own (except when mating and raising cubs) and need huge stretches of land. But as Asia’s human population grows, people are moving into tigers’ territory. Forests are cut down for firewood and timber. Farms, factories, and houses are built in their place. This  leaves only small patches of land for tigers.

Hunting the hunter. Illegal hunting (called poaching) of tigers is a major problem. Some people think parts of a tiger’s body can heal pain and cure disease. Because of this, many tigers are killed. Their bones, whiskers, tails, and other body parts are used in several traditional Chinese products. These products are sold in Asia and illegally in the United States, but scientists say they don’t really work as medicines. 

Cats in captivity. There are between 5,000 and 7,000 tigers living in captivity in the U.S. alone. That’s more than are left in the wild. Some live in licensed zoos or sanctuaries, but most are kept in circuses, traveling shows, roadside zoos, and even people’s backyards. This isn’t just unfair to tigers—it’s also dangerous for people.

What Can You Do?
● Don’t go to circuses or shows that use tigers or other wild animals. Let wildlife live free!

● Hold a fund-raiser and donate the money to a group that works to help tigers.

● Let others know about the problems facing tigers and how they can help. 

● Visit www.kidsfortigers.org to see how kids in India are helping protect their country's national animal.