Scottish zoo helps Russian tigers

Last updated: 07-Aug-06 12:31 BST

Visitors to Edinburgh Zoo can track clues such as paw prints and claw marks leading them to two stripy predators.

The new Tiger Trail aims to tempt visitors along to see Amur tigers Yuri, 13, and Sasha, ten.

The viewing area in the main enclosure has also been redesigned to resemble a Russian ranger station complete with stoves and lanterns. The theme for the viewing area was chosen to highlight the continuing work of Russian rangers who are involved in anti-poaching activities in the Amur valley, in the far east of Russia.

Fewer than 400 Amur tigers now remain in the wild as a result of over-hunting and extensive deforestation, which leaves the tigers with little food.

But the Russian rangers have had a major impact on tiger conservation with a significant decrease in the level of poaching.

David Windmill, chief executive at the zoo, said: “By introducing an interactive element to our tiger enclosure we hope to engage with visitors and inspire them to learn more about this species and their origin.

“We have been actively involved in the conservation programme for the Amur tiger and have made donations to support the work of the Russian rangers as well as having ongoing involvement in the breeding programme.”

http://news.scotsman.com/entertainment.cfm?id=1145162006