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A Plea for the Tiger’s Survival |
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In this modern age, catching a mere glimpse of a majestic tiger in its
natural habitat has become an almost impossible feat, teetering on the edge
of improbability. The inexorable passage of time has brought this
awe-inspiring creature to the brink of extinction. Once, in a bygone era,
these regal beasts roamed freely, thriving across the vast landscapes of
Asia. Alas, today they stand on the verge of oblivion, their population
dwindled to but a shadow of its former glory—now a meager few hundred
remain.
Among the many forces driving this tragic decline, one pervasive belief
stands as a formidable enemy to the tiger’s survival. Deeply rooted in the
minds of countless people, particularly throughout Asia, is the notion that
every part of the tiger harbors potent medicinal powers. Folklore tells of
miraculous healing properties within the tiger’s eyes, said to improve
vision, and in its blood, believed to grant vitality. Yet, this veneration
of the tiger’s supposed medicinal value fuels its relentless persecution.
Greedy poachers, lured by the promise of vast wealth, prowl the wilderness,
risking all for the bounty that a single tiger can bring.
Though the tiger is a symbol of strength and ferocity, its might is no match
for the advanced weaponry of its hunters. These well-armed poachers act with
brutal efficiency, while park rangers, outnumbered and under-resourced,
struggle to protect the vast territories under their care.
How tragic it would be if, in the near future, the only sight of this
magnificent creature were confined to a museum, reduced to a lifeless,
taxidermied figure. Unless we change our course, stop buying products
derived from tigers, and become fervent defenders of their survival, this
somber fate could soon become reality. Yet, there remains hope that we might
alter this mournful destiny, and ensure the tiger’s continued presence in
the wild. Let it be so. |
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