Snaring in a stronghold: Poaching and bycatch of critically endangered tigers in northern Sumatra, Indonesia

Wire-snare poaching is increasingly recognized as a major threat to endangered large carnivores in Africa and Asia. However, empirical information on the extent and distribution of snaring remains extremely limited beyond anecdotal reports presenting opportunistically collected data. In this study, we compile information to present a comprehensive synopsis of snaring of critically endangered Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae). Hunted for their parts and skins, Sumatran tigers remain in high demand in illicit international markets. We focus our analysis on the provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra, Indonesia, which cumulatively contain similar to 36 % of the island's remaining tiger habitat. Based on records collected from a combination of Indonesian government data, ranger patrol observations, and content analysis of local media, we identified 13 tiger snaring hotspots and documented 28 verified incidents of ensnared tigers between March 2008-March 2023. These totals represent minimum estimates because of spatiotemporal gaps in ranger patrols and inconsistent reporting of snaring by local communities. Our analysis of the incidents reveals tiger mortality in 9 (32.1 %) of the cases and permanent moves to ex-situ settings due to amputation or other debilitating snaring-induced injuries in another 8 (28.6 %) cases. Tiger snaring was positively correlated with forest-edge habitats in the Leuser Ecosystem, where 64.3 % of all incidents occurred. Across both provinces, 28.6 % of all snared tigers were allegedly captured in snares set in agricultural areas to control wild boar. To maximize efficacy of the government's ongoing anti-snare campaigns, we recommend increased personnel for ranger patrols and more attention on tiger-specific snaring impacts.

Automated summary

Wire-snare poaching poses a significant threat to endangered large carnivores in Africa and Asia, including Sumatran tigers. The study reveals the extent of snaring and its detrimental effects on tiger populations, calling for increased efforts and attention to address this issue.