A number of tiger subspecies have already become extinct in the last century. Of the remaining subspecies, Sumatran and Siberian Tigers are the most endangered, and it's thought that less than 500 of each type remains in the wild. Following a push by the Indian government to conserve tigers, the number of Bengal Tigers in the wild has risen to around 3000, but they remain endangered. Many experts predict that tigers will be wiped out of their natural habitat in the next 15 years. Compared to an estimated 100,000 in the wild a hundred years ago, it’s not hard to agree with those predictions.

Poaching and habitat destruction are the 2 biggest threats and Endangered Species Breeding Programs may be their only salvation. Zoos such as the National Zoo & Aquarium are endeavouring to keep the species alive and maintain genetic diversity, while at the same time trying to save some of their habitat and contribute directly to their conservation in the wild.

The National Zoo and Aquarium is home to 6 tigers; Ravi, Baru, Ndari, Aceh, Mya and Melati.