Skin is the most valued part of a tiger from Sumatra
Tiger bone declining in value
A survey conducted by TRAFFIC in 2002 suggests the possibility that trade in tiger bone has actually declined in Sumatra.
This investigation found less tiger bone available than in a previous survey from 1995, and also lower prices for Sumatran Tiger bone than have been reported in the past. Though this has not led to a decline in poaching.
But tiger skins are increasing
In Sumatra, the existence of a substantial domestic market for tiger skins and other parts, especially claws and canines, as trophies, charms and souvenirs, is a major factor in the continuing incidence of poaching. Retail prices for quoted for tiger skins have remained high, at $US1,000-3,000 since the 1970s.
| Main types of tiger parts observed during 2002 market surveys |
|||
|
Tiger part or product |
Total number observed |
% of total observed |
|
|
Claw |
175+ |
42% |
|
|
Canine |
102+ |
24% |
|
|
Whisker |
80+ |
19% |
|
|
Whole skin |
24+ |
6% |
|
|
Piece of skin |
20 |
5% |
|
|
Bone |
8 (= 8 cases) |
2% |
|
| Whole stuffed tiger |
5
|
1%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
International trade
Information from traders in Sumatra also indicated continued illegal international trade in tiger parts out of Sumatra.
Traders reported that tiger parts are sold to Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, and China. Singapore and Malaysia may act as transit countries as well as consumers for tiger parts.
