There is no disputing the fact that climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the planet. It affects so many parts of our life and the world
This century has seen several species rendered extinct, something that has been definitively attributed to global warming. The World Wildlife Fund has stated that just a 3
The number of wild Tigers has decreased by up to 97% in the last 100 years, and this is believed to be due to four main factors, all of which are caused by climate change.
Deforestation
The Sumatran species, in particular, is close to extinction, with deforestation of its habitat cited as the main cause. Felling trees has become common practice in Indonesia, in an effort to increase the number of unsustainable palm oil plantations. Not only does the deforestation cause climate change, but also it reduces habitat and leaves the big cat more exposed to illegal trafficking.
Rising Sea Levels
India is famous for its Bengal species, but this huge continent will lose them completely if rising sea levels are not addressed. As the sea levels encroach, coastal habitat decreases and, for the big cat, which relies on the extensive mangrove forest for its survival, this is catastrophic. Higher waters are destroying this area, known as the Sunderbans, by drowning all in its way, but also by polluting the fresh water with salt
Natural Disasters
Natural disasters are definitely on the increase and experts are in little doubt of the prime cause. Siberian Tigers live in areas where there has been an increase in wildfires, and a longer, hotter and drier season is the newest threat to its habitat.
More frequent storms are occurring, causing flooding and destroying crops, leaving displaced farmers seeking out areas further from home in which to make a living. This often means moving into big cat territory. Conflict then escalates as a result.
Climate change also has a huge impact on the food sources of the Tiger. Travelling large distances is not a problem for these agile beasts, but in the quest to find food they often move into villages and communities, which again causes conflict.
Temperature Change
The Tigers of Siberia and Russia are really suffering from the planet
While the future is definitely going to be a challenge for Panthera tigris, awareness of their plight is increasing. In India, in particular, there are several excellent conservation schemes in place to protect them. More local people are getting involved and many National Parks have excellent facilities to support Tiger travel in India, which helps invest in the future of these beautiful creatures.