Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — The Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) is the last species remaining of the three big cat species in Indonesia’s. Endemic to the island of Sumatra, this tiger has become a symbol of Indonesia’s wild nature and biodiversity. However, its population keeps declining, facing extinction.
According to the data from Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), only about 600 Sumatran tigers remain today. The decline in their numbers over the past few decades is attributed to various factors, including illegal hunting, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.
Driven by high demand for tiger parts on the black market, Sumatran tigers continue to be targets of illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking. Their body parts, such as their fangs, claws, and skin, are highly sought for their high price. Not only that, the trade of these tigers as exotic pets further endangers their population.
The extinction rate has increased, considering the slow reproductive rate of Sumatran tigers. These animals take a long time to reach maturity and also have a long pregnancy period, producing only two to three cubs at a time. This slow reproduction cycle makes it difficult for the population to recover.
Habitat loss also contributes to this declining cat population, leading to increased conflicts between tigers and humans. As human populations grow, the forests that are home to these tigers are shrinking. Land clearing for agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development has destroyed much of their habitat. Consequently, tigers are forced into more open areas, heightening the likelihood of conflict with humans.
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A recent incident involving the death of a tiger trapped by a wild boar snare adds to the growing list of tiger fatalities linked to human conflict. Once revered by local communities and regarded as mystical creatures, Sumatran tigers now face an uncertain future as they increasingly approach human settlements. This mighty honored animal has now become a threat to humans.
The West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) reported a rise in tiger-human conflicts over the past three years. In 2023 alone, there were 34 recorded cases of conflict in West Sumatra, while in 2024 at least 21 more cases happened up to July. All these conflicts occurred outside conservation areas, mostly in areas used by humans, such as agricultural land or settlements.
As these majestic creatures near the door of extinction, we are faced with the deep question, “Are we willing to let this happen?”
(Raidi/Agung)
