Three critically endangered Sumatran tigers were found dead after being caught in traps on Indonesia’s Sumatra island.

Source: WION/Youtube

A male and female were found dead with leg injuries from the snare trap that caught them. The traps were set near a palm oil plantation in Indonesia’s East Aceh district. A little over 500 yards away, another female was found dead and almost had her head completely severed with her leg still stuck in the trap, according to local police chief Hendra Sukmana.

International Union for Conservation of Nature classified the Sumatran tigers as critically endangered in 2008 when its population was estimated to be under 700. Now, the unique species is the most critically endangered tiger in the world, with the population estimated to be below 400.

Agus Arianto at the Conservation agency in Aceh said that similar traps to catch wild boar were found around the same area. Indian authorities have been urging plantation companies and the public to stop using these snares in the forest areas that are home to many magnificent and unique creatures.

“We strongly condemned this incident and will co-operate with law enforcement agencies in an investigation,” Arianto said in a statement.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time that tigers or other animals have fallen victim to these vicious traps in their homes. Last October, a female tiger was found just after the death of two cubs and an adult tiger in a nearby region. Last November, a baby elephant died after losing half of her trunk in a trap set by poachers.

Source: AP Archive/Youtube

Under Indonesia’s Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystems law, killing protected animals is illegal, and offenders can face a fine and prison time. However, more needs to be done to save these animals before it’s too late.

Sign this petition to urge the Indonesian government to help save the Sumatran tigers!

Related Content:

• There Are Only 400 Sumatran Tigers Left and 3 Just Died Thanks to Irresponsible Wire Trap
• Endangered Tiger Mother and Cubs Found Dead in Sumatran Forest
• How Palm Oil Impacts the Sumatran Tiger
• Tiger King Failed to Address the Difference Between Zoos and Sanctuaries and Why Breeding Tigers Does Not Help Conservation
• What?! Demand for Durian Fruit Is Seriously Threatening Tigers Who Are Already Critically Endangered

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