European Association of Zoos and Aquaria

EAZA Tiger Campaign 2002/4

Target projects: Project 5

Protection and Outreach Activities, Primorsky, Russian Far East

The survival of Amur tigers is threatened by the reduction in numbers of prey animals and the habitat destruction brought on by illegal logging, fire and pollution. Tiger poaching and trading in tiger parts is on the increase - in just the first five months of 2002, five tiger skins and three sets of tiger bones were confiscated by rangers.

To combat the increase in tiger poaching two environmental investigation teams were created in early 2001 to carry out raids all around Primorsky region. They work with government rangers to deter and disrupt poaching, bring law violators to justice and raise awareness of environmental issues amongst local people. Another team works in the north of the region to combat illegal logging and trade across the Chinese border.

To conserve the tiger habitat and their prey animals, Phoenix are executing a conservation plan that combines public and state law enforcement activities, education and outreach to ensure sound protection for the tiger.

Specifically, in 2003 this project will support:

Two public environmental investigation teams, led by experienced rangers who have worked in this field for over 15 years. Teams carry out three or four-day long anti-poaching raids regularly. In 2001 they documented an incredible 113 violations and confiscated 44 illegal weapons.

Inspection Tiger Team ©David Higgs/TEPA

A wildlife protection team to manage hunting in the area.

New communications equipment: 9 base wireless sets, 14 portable sets and a radio transmitter. Inadequate communication and worn-out vehicles make it impossible for rangers to co-ordinate their anti-poaching efforts. The new equipment will be compatible with that previously bought for the project (by 21st Century Tiger) and the radios will all use the same frequency.

Tiger Day Festivals in Vladivostok and Luchegorsk to educate and engage local communities in active conservation. These have become official annual city events involving school children from all over Primorye. There is a carnival procession, plays, quizzes and games.