IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Jungius, H. | |
| Feasibility study on the possible restoration of the Caspian tiger in Central Asia | |
| 2010 Full Book | |
The Caspian Tiger occurred in eastern Turkey, the southern Caucasus, in northern Iran, Iraq, and in isolated pockets throughout Central Asia until north-western China. In Central Asia the tiger was found along floodplains of rivers and in tall grass and reed beds along rivers and lakes. This type of riparian forest is called "Tugai" and used to be widespread throughout the region. The tiger became extinct in the region about 40 year ago. The main reason for its disappearance was habitat destruction and hunting (even extermination as vermin during reclamation of new lands in 19-th century) and the decline of its prey base. Stimulated by recent findings that the Amur- or Siberian Tiger is the closest relative of the Caspian Tiger, discussions started if the Amur Tiger could be an appropriate substitute for reintroduction into a save place in Central Asia. The Amu Darya Delta and the South-Balkhash-Ily-Delta Regions were suggested as potential sites. A feasibility study was initiated to these areas with the objective to investigate if any of these 2 sites is suitable. The project team analyzed the biological and ecological data of the species and its habitat. Factors for the species decline and extinction were assessed. A detailed review, on the tiger's history in Central Asia revealed that the species disappeared not long ago from the region. Field visits were undertaken to the Amu Darya Delta in 2009 and the South-Balkhash-Ily-Delta in 2010 to analyze their suitability for the project. The final conclusion of this assessment and a comparison between both regions is that a viable tiger population of about 100 animals would require at least 500.000 ha of contiguous habitat with rich prey populations. The relevant habitats are available; however several factors which led to the extinction of the species such as hunting and habitat deterioration are still prevailing in both regions. However, the implementation of the project might be possible, if these and other limiting factors could be overcome, together with significant financial and political support. The team realised that this can not be provided in the short term. |
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