MARWELL Wildlife has launched a new conservation project to help safeguard the future of endangered tigers in Bhutan.

Figures released on Saturday, July 29 for International Tiger Day revealed that tiger populations are increasing in Bhutan, from 103 in 2015 to 131. It is hoped that the new joint project will build upon this progress by reconnecting people with the history, traditions and experiences they share with the biggest species of cat on the planet.

Hampshire Chronicle: The project will explore the cultural significance of tigers in Bhutan in an effort to safeguard themThe project will explore the cultural significance of tigers in Bhutan in an effort to safeguard them (Image: Marwell Wildlife - Philip Riordan)Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, ancient stories and practises which celebrate the tiger’s sacredness will be used to help people understand the deep spiritual connections they share with tigers.

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Buddhist scriptures and other texts, art, and practices will be interpreted, documented and showcased to reconnect people with their heritage and ensure they continue to be shared for generations to come. Modern approaches to nature’s recovery for tigers and people will complement this and run alongside.

Thanks to a legacy donation to Marwell, this three-year project has been made possible through insight from Buddhist scholars and conservationists in Bhutan. It is anticipated this model for modern tiger conservation will be used in neighbouring countries and for other species in the future.

Samten Yeshi, of Druk Nyo Foundation, leads the project. He said: “For Bhutan, even during the pre-Buddhist times, the connection between people and nature has been very strong, based on a profound respect for the environment. However, conservation practices have been greatly challenged today with the increase in population, developmental activities, the impact of climate change, the decline of traditional cultural practices and beliefs and shifts in policy priorities.

Hampshire Chronicle: Marwell Wildlife director of conservation, Phil Riordan (first from the right) called the project 'World leading in terms of protections given to landscape and wildlife'Marwell Wildlife director of conservation, Phil Riordan (first from the right) called the project 'World leading in terms of protections given to landscape and wildlife' (Image: Marwell Wildlife - Samten Yeshi)SEE ALSO: City centre shopping arcade revamp sees mixed response from shop owners

“This project has been a long time coming but one I hope will truly impact the natural world. As a cultural organisation, it gives me immense joy and happiness to partner with conservation scientists, playing a part in saving these beautiful creatures.”

Professor Phil Riordan, Marwell’s director of conservation, said: “This project is a culmination of conversations and ideas we’ve had around big cat conservation and the need for us to explore and develop innovative ways to connect people with nature. Tigers are a source of both great pride and concern, the concern is of course around the conflict they can cause with people.

“The way Bhutan is developing conservation approaches is world-leading in terms of protections given to landscape and wildlife. It provides a good platform so we can seek ways to enhance and improve our efforts.”