Rachel in Russia - Siberian Tiger

I'm supporting the Siberian tiger, which is such a beautiful animal. I've always been fascinated by them because they're so striking and powerful. We should all try to save animals from extinction.

Day 1

Rachel: "After nearly two days of travelling I've finally arrived in the far east of Russia. I had to leave Paul exploring in Moscow, because he lost his tickets for the flight to Vladivostock. I hope he catches up soon!"

Day 2

Paul: "After I caught back up with Rachel, I asked her to show me around Vladivostock, which is actually a naval port. Unfortunately there weren't loads of shops, so Rachel was a bit disappointed. She loves shopping!"

Day 3

Rachel: "We took a beautiful, old train to Usserisk today and I met up with some of the staff from WWF. First of all we came across a tiger footprint, which proves that there are tigers in this area and that's scary. They then told me all about the anti-poaching brigades they fund to help protect the tigers and also showed me a tiger skin which was really horrible. I can't understand why people want to kill these animals, rather than help them."

Day 4

Rachel: "Today we actually saw some tigers - a mum, a dad and their three cubs. Although they were beautiful to look at and it was a fantastic experience, I was terrified. They were so big and strong and looked like they were really hungry! I realise how lucky I am to have seen them though when they are so endangered."

WWF's Work

Along with TRAFFIC, their highly effective wildlife trade monitoring network, WWF are investigating and exposing illegal trade in tiger parts, assisting law enforcement agencies to crack down on dealers, and finding acceptable alternatives in the countries where the medicinal use of tiger parts has been practised for centuries. But lifetime customs are difficult to change and WWF has to treat people's traditional beliefs delicately and with respect. They also continue to lobby governments to enforce international treaties and wildlife protection laws.

WWF continues to conserve tigers in the wild by working with governments and local people to establish, improve and manage important reserves in China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Russia, Thailand and Vietnam.