John Varty & Tiger Canyon

[Pckts]

(11-03-2017, 12:40 AM)Michael Wrote: Why ?

That would change the predator dynamics specially if they were to be introduced in an area with leopards, tigers would probably take the leopards place in the predator chain and probably cause their extinction in that area.

Also the impact in the herbivore species like Nyala and Waterbuck.

I can see why he is not a very popular figure

A few things to note...
They only live in an enclosed area, most of the prey animals there have been introduced.
In regards to where a Tiger would fit in Africa, that is a different dilemma all together. They would need to inhabit more forested areas to thrive, the open plains would not suit them well since they are too big to climb trees and a coalition or pride would surely cause a lone Tiger trouble.
Impact on prey is a non concern, no predator can survive more than a prey population can support, Tigers preferred prey would be the same as Lions and if numbers shot too low, Tiger population would fall right there with it. The apex predator is the last number that increases, the more apex predators the better the ecosystem.

Now, if you were to ask Varty what is the purpose of this experiment I think that he'd say the following: In no specific Order

His goal is to create a reserve of wild tigers that could be used as a translocated species to be sent to any area that would be in need if a wild population were lost.
He want's to create public awareness of the plight of the Tiger, he also want's to teach Africans about the Tiger.
He want's to generate profits for himself and his causes, through eco tourism he hopes to stimulate the economy surrounding his reserve.
Last but not least I think he truly believes the Tiger can survive in Africa, whether they can or not is something else.


My personal opinion is this, I think it's fine. At this point trying to get rid of all captive cats is a losing battle, it's just not going to happen. If these Tigers can live as close to wild as possible, be healthy, hunt and generate revenue for the people who need it, then I'm all for it. I'd rather see unmolested natural landscape with wild animals surviving there over concrete streets and tall buildings. Reply