Tiger Missing Link Foundation estimates that only 2,500 to 3,500 individual tigers now remain in the wild (2006 estimates). These remaining tigers are threatened by many factors, including growing human populations, loss of habitat, illegal hunting of the tiger and of the species they hunt, and expanded trade in tiger parts for traditional medicines. Within captivity, poor breeding programs, untrained or inexperienced keepers, and improper husbandry are adding to the tiger's plight. Tiger Conservation in situ Support (wild) Tiger Missing Link Foundation is working to save the tiger in the wild by supporting select tiger conservation projects. Organizational efforts supported by Tiger Missing Link Foundation include various tiger conservation insitu projects throughout Asia and Asia Minor. Tiger Conservation ex situ Support (captive) Our captive tiger conservation efforts involve DNA testing, genetic management, sound husbandry practices of unknown tiger populations within the private sector and the implementation of a captive managed program known as the Tiger Species Enhancement Program / Plan (TSEP)TM. Tiger Missing Link Foundation is working to identify the sub-specific affiliations and relationships of these unknown tigers through DNA testing and genetic research. The Tiger SEPTM has been recognized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a viable alternative to captive breeding. The foundation does not currently support any breeding of captive tigers at this time.  It is pertinent that genetic research and DNA testing be conducted prior to the implementation of any breeding programs. Linking in situ and ex situ Tiger Conservation Beyond the concerns for the captive population, there is a need to monitor the status of wild tiger populations, the effects of current removal rates from the wild populations, and the contribution these tigers can make to captive populations. All populations, however large or small, are at some risk of extinction. The smaller the population, the more likely it will occur. Countering the trend toward even smaller populations of wild tigers requires that conservationists develop interactive strategies for managing fragmented wild populations and for using captive populations for backup and support. These technologies should not be viewed as a resolution to the extinction process but as additional alternatives for the long-term conservation of the species. Molecular DNA Study. The most promising method of distinguishing tiger subspecies is through molecular DNA technology. As of today, this technology is only in its infancy, is relatively expensive, and has limited availability. Because the subspecies issue is so critical to determining evolutionary significant units (significant to the management of populations), the Tiger GCS supports continued research to clarify taxonomic distinctness of extant taxa, including: a) distinction between P.t. tigris and P.t. corbetti; b) distinction between P.t. sumatrae and mainland forms; c) distinction between P.t. altaica and southern forms; and d) estimation of genetic diversity among fragmented wild tiger populations. [Excerpts derived from Management and Conservation of Captive Tigers, Panthera tigris, written in part by Dr. Ronald Tilson, IUCN/SSC CBSG Tiger Global Animal Survival Plan Coordinator and AZA Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP) Coordinator]. Courtesy of the Tiger Information Center Additional Research Projects of TMLF Modern Day Pioneers The research approach and applied methods of TMLF teaches us all a greater understanding of the tiger's needs for long-term survival. With modern day advancements involving biotechnology, we are able to see the animals in ways that they never before have been seen. We are then able to apply the interpretations of this data as an effort toward conserving their genetic divergence. This divergence acts as an insurance policy guaranteeing life for generations if properly managed. We do all of this without harm to the animals: blood samples derive from routine annual physicals; hair samples come from natural shedding during the summer months; and stool samples can be collected from the compound. Priorities Conservation Genetics Tiger Management We present an overview of molecular techniques available for pursuing population, taxonomic, and phylogenetic questions, with a special emphasis on the latest PCR-based technologies of DNA sequencing and micro satellites and on the computer programs available for analysis of molecular genetic data. The intent of the TMLF is to share an interest in conservation as well as a common goal of learning and applying conservation genetics in the management of endangered species, more specifically the tiger. This principle through management of captive tigers ensures the tigers' survival by taking them beyond extinction. The implementation of a sound genetic managed program of captive tigers is needed for the enhancement of propagation.  This will allow us to retain the maximum genetic diversity possible for living populations, thus ensuring the tiger's survival. Animal Care Tiger Husbandry Although tigers are numerous in captivity, surprisingly little medical data has been published on them. Most published reports concern medical problems that are preventable, given the present state of the science of veterinarian medicine, namely dietary related deficiencies and diseases or viral infections. Our approach is to serve as an overall resource to assist in the gathering of scientific information for enhanced veterinarian care and research for the tiger, not only to minimize disease but to improve overall viability. Collaborations Alternative Scientific Studies and Gathering of Interpretive Information An example of the foundation's role in this area is where recently we assisted a chemical ecologist working at the Smithsonian's Conservation and Research Center, and, more recently, at the USDA's Laboratory of Insects Affecting Man. The main project was to collect and extract vertebrate, skin, hair, and feather samples to test the reactions of various arthropod ectoparasites. Tiger Missing Link Foundation was instrumental in providing samples from large cats.  The foundation facilitated the obtaining of hair and skin samples from captive carnivores. The ultimate goal of this project, which now involves a collaboration with the Department of Defense, is to identify naturally produced arthropod repellents (insect repellents). Research Exchange or Resource of Information Among Scientist, Additionally, the agency works with scientists by providing blood samples, genetic materials, and various other biological products through exchanges that assist researchers in helping both people and the animals. Next Section (Tiger Education) --> Copyright © 2002 Tiger Missing Link Foundation. All rights reserved. TEXT MENU