Tigers — Russia & China

Historically, tigers thrived across the expansive landscapes of Russia and China, contributing to the biodiversity of these regions as apex predators. These large carnivores, with distinct subspecies like the Siberian tiger, Caspian tiger, and Amur tiger, held a crucial ecological role in regulating prey populations. Tigers featured prominently in the cultures and folklore of both nations, symbolizing power, strength, and protection. However, over the years, tigers have faced severe threats, primarily stemming from habitat loss due to logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Additionally, poaching for their coveted body parts and conflicts with local communities have further imperiled tiger populations. The Caspian tiger, historically found in the Caspian region, including parts of Russia, faced extinction primarily due to hunting and habitat degradation, while the many of the other subspecies have held on for survival.

Conservation initiatives in Russia and China such as The Amur-Heilong Transboundary Protected Area, spanning the border between Russia and China, aim to preserve and restore tiger habitats, combat poaching through rigorous law enforcement, and engage local communities in the protection of these iconic species, recognizing the vital role tigers play in maintaining ecological balance. These initiatives have contributed to the recovery of some of the populations of tigers throughout the region.