An Amur tiger, also known as a Siberian tiger, tests the waters in Russia
Tamim Ridlo/Shutterstock
Tigers Between Empires
Jonathan C. Slaght, Allen Lane (UK); Farrar, Straus and Giroux (US)
The Siberian tiger, also known as the Amur tiger, is a magnificent creature with a striking coat of black and orange. Conservationist Jonathan Slaght paints a vivid picture of this majestic animal, describing its roar as a “terrible tide” and its ability to thrive in the harsh winters of Russia’s far east, where it coexists with bears. The Amur tiger’s territory spans the vast Amur river basin, a significant watershed in Asia that marks the border between Russia and China. In his compelling book Tigers Between Empires: The journey to save the Siberian tiger from extinction, Slaght delves into the complex interplay between these two great empires and the challenges faced by the Amur tiger.
Historically, the Amur tiger population numbered around 3000, but their existence has been threatened by various factors. In 1947, the Soviet Union took the groundbreaking step of legally protecting tigers, leading to a temporary resurgence in their numbers. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union in the late 20th century had dire consequences for the tigers, as economic hardships drove people to resort to hunting and trapping, pushing the species to the brink of extinction on both sides of the border.
Enter Dale Miquelle, an American conservationist who spearheaded the Siberian Tiger Project in Primorye, Russia’s easternmost region. Working alongside a dedicated team of researchers, including Russian counterparts, Miquelle embarked on a mission to save the Amur tigers from extinction. Slaght’s intimate knowledge of this remote wilderness, with its pristine forests and diverse ecosystems, shines through in his vivid descriptions of the landscape and the captivating stories of the tigers that call it home.
The project’s success hinged on a combination of scientific expertise and a shift in public perception towards these iconic predators. By highlighting the individuality of tigers like Olga, Severina, and Zolushka, the team managed to foster a sense of coexistence between humans and tigers, paving the way for conservation efforts to take root. The collaborative spirit that drove the project, transcending national boundaries and political differences, serves as a poignant reminder of what can be achieved through shared determination and cooperation.
After three decades of tireless work, Miquelle’s departure from Russia in 2022 marked a bittersweet milestone in the project’s history. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, the efforts of the team had paid off, with the protected habitat for Amur tigers expanding significantly and the wild population doubling since the mid-20th century. The story of the Amur tiger is a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of collective action in safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity.
Adam Weymouth is the author of Lone Wolf, shortlisted for the Baillie Gifford prize
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