Oh boy...
The Kelantan State Forestry Department (JPNK) has denied allegations that the severe logging activities in the state have driven wild tigers away from their natural habitat, thus largely affecting the population of the wild animals.
According to the JPNK director, Abdul Khalim Abu Samah, deforestation has proven to pose an opposite effect, according to a study by an expert from Sarawak.
“Logging actually results in many new trees growing. This process attracts small animals such as deer to come to the area. These animals are a source of food for tigers," he explained. "This situation makes it easier for tigers to get food sources compared to in the thick jungle," he told reporters after participating in the Operation to Combat Illegal Exploration at the Relai Permanent Forest Reserve (HSK), Ladang Serasa yesterday.
The conversation was initiated by reporters after the allegations by various parties that linked the incident of several tigers roaming in the Orang Asli village at Pos Bihai due to logging activities, were brought to his attention.
Basically, thick and rich jungles are essentially bad for these wild animals as it'd make it difficult for these carnivores to hunt for prey, thus bringing about the need for logging. More trees cut = more food for the tigers. Interesting...