The latest survey shows that the number of wild Manchurian Tigers, one of most endangered species in the world, has increased by 8 or even 12, raising the total number in China to as many as 18.

A joint survey conducted by Chinese and , Russian experts in 1999 found that the tigers numbered only 13.

Zhang Haiming, professor of the Northeast Forest University, attributed the growth to the halt of deforestation of natural forests there, the setup of natural reserves and the rising public awareness of environment protection.

The tigers live in Siberia in Russia and northeast China region. They are called Siberian Tigers in Russia where 380 such animals live.

(people's daily 09/11/2001)