Ranthambhore Foundation

Statistics reveal that there may be almost 5,000 wild tigers left in the world. Three subspecies are already extinct. India, the tiger's last stronghold, may have as few as 2,500 which are being poached at an alarming rate of nearly a tiger a day. their bones and other parts are used in Traditional Chinese Medicines and their skins sold for decoration.
CFTWI (Care For The Wild International) launched an on-going appeal for tigers in December 1995. They are one of only a handful of international NGOs to have put money where it is needed the most - into buying equipment and vehicles for the forest guards who protect the last remaining wild tigers in India.

On the suggestion of tiger expert Fateh Singh Rathore, CFTWI targets the areas where equipment will be most effectively utilised. CFTWI handed over 17 motorcycles and two trucks to the Satpura National Park and the Bori and Pachmari Sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh. Further donations of jeeps, trucks and motor boats have followed and CFTWI has spent well over £100,000 in India alone. A letter from the Principal Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) in Madhya Pradesh said "This donation is by far the biggest we have received from any NGO. A continued support in saving the tiger will give good results in time to come is encouraged".

CFTWI has produced a comprehensive book on tigers and the problems they face. These information books on tigers are designed for a common person whilst still including scientific information. It has been acclaimed by the IUCN cat specialist group and in particular Mr Peter Jackson (Chairman of the Cat Specialist Group). The book costs £4.99 and will be available in our online gift catalogue (coming soon).

Dhole Project:
The Dhole is an endangered Indian wild dog. It is a very intelligent social animal, living in tight-knit social groups where all members care for the young. It is a very misunderstood animal, persecuted in some areas - where protection is not rigidly enforced - just for being predatory. Habitat loss and subsequent increasing human contact are causing its decline.

CFTWI are supporting a research team in India. They are gathering vital data on the status, distribution and habits of this intriguing and beautiful animal.