Deputy Governor of the Primorye Territory said much had been done for wildlife protection in the region at federal and local level in 2013.

For example, the Criminal Code has been amended to increase punishment for killing, trafficking and keeping wildlife species on Russia's red list of endangered species. Formerly, those found guilty of these crimes would be subject to administrative responsibility. Now they face prison terms of up to seven years for killing listed wildlife species.

This is the first time that Russia has taken such harsh measures in this area.

"Those who buy, store and traffic listed wildlife species or their derivatives, as well as those who help or order the killing of wildlife will also be liable for criminal punishment. That is very important, because it is demand that breeds supply," Sidorenko said.

He also said that punishment should be complemented with preventive efforts and the protection of listed wildlife species should be properly organised in the Primorye Territory.

The region has special rapid response groups that form the southern, the eastern, the northern and the western wildlife protection teams. They consist of experienced inspectors who regularly monitor hunting farms and their grounds.

"The Siberian Tiger Centre, which was established at President Vladimir Putin's initiative, is actively contributing to this work. It is a non-profit organisation aimed at protecting the population of listed wildlife species, in particular the Amur (Siberian) tiger," Sidorenko said.

The foundation's Primorye branch will assist the regional organisations' efforts to protect wildlife and to organise the preventive education of local residents. It also plans to promote the celebration of a new holiday, Tiger Day, in the region.

Major funds will be raised for preventive educational work at schools and for fighting poachers, as well as for buying modern portable radio sets, GPS and other equipment necessary for fighting poachers.

"I believe that the next year we will see the tide turn in the fight against poachers and in our work to preserve wildlife species, particularly those listed," the deputy governor said in conclusion.