International Tiger Day 2023

About International Tiger Day:

• It is observed on July 29 each year.
• It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the endangered tiger species.
• It is celebrated worldwide to promote comprehensive efforts in safeguarding tigers and their natural habitats, fostering harmonious coexistence between humans and tigers.
• History of International Tiger Day:
  • Global Tiger Day, commonly referred to as International Tiger Day, was first established in 2010 during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit by nations that are home to tigers. 
  • 13 tiger range countries came together to create Tx2 – the global goal to double the number of wild tigers by the year 2022.
  • The 29th of July was chosen as International Tiger Day because it represents the halfway point between the first and last days of the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit and the ongoing international campaign to rescue tigers.

Key Facts about Bengal Tiger:

• Bengal tiger (subspecies Panthera tigris tigris) inhibits the forests, and wetlands of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.
• Features:
  • It is distinguished from other tiger subspecies by its orange coat accented by prominent brownish-to-black stripes; a rare white-coated variant of the subspecies also exists. 
  • The largest male Bengal tigers can grow up to about 3.2 metres long (including a 1 metre long tail) and weigh nearly 295 kg. 
  • Females are smaller, the largest ones measuring about 2.7 metres long and weighing as much as 181 kg. 
  • They are solitary hunters, preying primarily on ungulates (including deer and antelope), gaurs, and wild boars (Sus scrofa). 
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Endangered
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972: Schedule-1

Q1) What is the Global Tiger Forum (GTF)?

The Global Tiger Forum (GTF) is an international intergovernmental organization dedicated to the conservation of tigers and the protection of their natural habitats. It was established in 1994 with the goal of promoting the conservation and sustainable management of tiger populations across the world. The GTF works collaboratively with tiger range countries, governments, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders to address the various challenges faced by tigers and to develop strategies for their protection.

Source: International Tiger Day 2023: Date, history, significance and all you need to know

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