Researchers Optimistic Wild Tiger Numbers Can Double

A new study suggests that wild tiger numbers could be on course for doubling. Research published in the journal, Science Advances used the latest satellite technology to study the decline in wild tiger numbers in 13 countries between 2001 and 2014. The results of the study suggested that the loss was far less than was expected. The study was ambitious, taking in vast tracts of land that spanned multiple jurisdictions which proved to be challenging. Nevertheless, the researchers are hoping they have found a solution not just for tigers but other species which are also being threatened.

Monitoring required

During a 2010 conference on tigers held in St. Petersburg many countries and conservation groups came together and set the goal of doubling the wild tiger population. Delegates to the conference identified 76 tiger habitats of which 29 were highlighted as being critical requiring monitoring at east every couple of years. Whilst that is fine in theory, the question was how this monitoring should take place. Whilst most countries have made efforts to comply, the approach has been rather piecemeal and there is now wide ranging study that considers all tiger habitats until now.

Technology has made more things possible

As technology has leapt forward it is now possible to undertake complex analysis of vast areas of land. The researchers have clearly taken advantage of this fact and are now laying a foundation for popular participation going forward. The researchers made use of information that was freely available from NASA satellite as well as the processing power of Google Earth. The scientists said what they found was remarkable with just 7.7 per cent of tiger habitat was lost to conversion during the period of study.

Lots of work needs to be done

There were a couple of reasons why predicted habitat loss had been higher than in reality. Firstly, there were 13 countries involved, some so which are the fastest growing economies in the world. Secondly the 29 highest priority tiger habitats are surrounded by the highest rural population densities on the planet. The stunning result shows that government and park authority efforts have been real. Had that not been the case, then there would have been much greater loss the study authors said. It goes without saying however that whilst the news was good, much work remains to be done.