Thailand Tiger Action Plan - Global Tiger Initiative

Why is it Important to Save the Tiger?• Tigers, as the largest carnivores, have an important functional role inThailand’s forest ecosystems.o Tigers prey upon large mammals, but their role is greaterthan the animals they eat. The entire ungulate communityhas evolved in response to tigers. Hence the loss of tigers inan area has cascading effects on the ecosystems where theyhave become extinct.• As the top predator in the landscapes where they occur, tigers requireextensive habitat and thus serve as an indicator of the integrity andhealth of wild ecosystems and as an umbrella for the conservation ofmany other species and the last remaining large forested landscapesin Asia.• Enhancing and saving the natural ecosystems required by tigersprovides many benefits to humans including:o Water delivery for agriculture, industry, and household useo Maintenance of forest cover to moderate climate change andmaintain local climate regimeso Preservation of biodiversity to enhance long-term ecosystemstabilityo Protection of wild areas that provide irreplaceable aestheticresources and opportunities for spiritual renewal for anincreasing urban human population.• For millennia, the tiger has played a significant role in cultural andspiritual aspects of nearly every Asian society. Today, peoplethroughout the world are inspired by the tiger’s grace, beauty, andpower. If wild tigers disappear from the earth, an important part of ourculture and society will go with them.• In support of the King’s “sufficient economy” initiative, Thailand iscommitted to the sustainable use and conservation of the country’snatural resources. Tigers can serve as an inspirational icon for thiscritical endeavor.