It is unknown how the Indochinese leopard lives in the forests of South East Asia’s mountains. Scientists estimate that around 1,000 Indochinese Tigers are spread across Thailand, Vietnam, Lao PDR and southern China.
Even though they are spread across the globe, one thing remains constant: poaching is a major threat to tigers in their entire habitat. The skin, teeth, bones and skin of tigers are taken from them and sold on black markets. They are also used in traditional medicine.
Poachers have made tigers in Cambodia easy prey because of weak laws enforcement. The recent establishment of anti poaching patrols in key habitats for tigers in Cambodia has led to a decrease in illegal poaching.
The Orvis Company has made a significant contribution to the ongoing fight against illegal hunting. Orvis is supporting the World Wildlife Fund’s Cambodian tiger conservation programme this year by asking customers to donate funds and matching funds up to $30,000. Orvis donates five percent of its pretax profits each year to different organizations that help to protect wildlife habitats and fish.
Orvis customers also donate to charity by doing what they love best: shopping. Shop at the retailer’s website. “Round Up for Conservation”Online customers can finish their purchase by clicking a box that allows them round up their purchase to the nearest $1, $5, or $100 increment. All proceeds will go to conservation funds around the world.
“Orvis has a long history of conservation and commitment to the communities in which we work,”James Hathaway is conservation manager at the Vermont-based, 150-year-old retailer. “The ‘Round Up for Conservation’ program is a great way for seemingly small contributions to have a big impact.”
According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Orvis has provided assistance to thousands of animals in crisis, including the endangered whooping Crane and the cheetah, which is currently on the brink. Between 2006 and 2007, the company raised $250,000 to support the Cheetah Conservation Fund. This fund not only educates Namibian farmers about how to live peacefully with cheetahs; it also helps restore the cheetah’s natural environment.
Orvis hopes that it will reach its goal to raise $60,000 to continue supporting the Indochinese Tiger population in Cambodia. Visit www.help.org for more information. www.orvis.com/conservation.
