The tiger is a truly magnificent creature, well-known for its majestic appearance and fierce athleticism. It plays a huge role in spiritualism across the world and is often the star of books, shows, movies, cartoons and songs. In fact, The Tiger Who Came to Tea is currently touring the UK and is one of the best things to do with kids. So why not book your tickets?

In the meantime, let’s delve deeper into the world of tigers. As an endangered species, they need our help to survive – so can we really save them?

An Endangered Species 

All six subspecies of tiger are threatened in some way. While the Bengal, Siberian and Indochinese Tiger are considered endangered, the Malayan, Sumatran and South China Tiger are considered critically endangered. Indeed, there’s been no sightings of the South China Tiger in its natural habitat for several decades and therefore it might even be extinct. Sadly, the Caspian Tiger, Javan Tiger, and Bali tiger are all extinct.

Reasons for Endangered Status 

There are many reasons why tigers are endangered. For instance, deforestation has led to tiger habitats being destroyed. Without anywhere suitable to live, tiger populations can quickly die out. Isolated populations also have less prey and can starve. While poaching is illegal, it still takes place, reducing tiger numbers further. As tigers lose their natural habitat, they’re more likely to come into contact with humans which can result in them being killed out of fear.

Hopes for a Brighter Future

While things have been looking bleak for tigers for the past century, good news has started to arrive. Endangered tiger numbers in India, for instance, reached a record high in 2023. The country’s latest tiger census revealed there are now 3,100 tigers in the country - double the number living there less than 20 years ago.

The recovery of the Indian Bengal tiger population is one of the most successful wildlife conservation stories of all time. It was made possible by the collaborative work of the Indian government’s Project Tiger campaign and conservation charities such as the Zoological Society of London.

Today, the focus for tiger preservation is very much on protecting habitats, enforcing anti-poaching measures and educating communities about the importance of tigers. After all, tiger habitats prevent the overpopulation of other species, protecting crops and delicate ecosystems.

The future is brighter for these magnificent beasts, but we must continue to make an effort to protect wild populations.

Find a tiger near you

If you’re looking for ‘things to do with kids near me’, book The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Google ‘theatres near me’ and find your nearest touring production. With such magic and wonder on stage, your children are sure to fall in love with the theatre and will be asking to go back again and again. This show is suitable for children aged three and above, and lasts just 55 minutes with no interval.