Burning Not So Bright?

It does seem pretty weird that there are more tigers kept as companion animals ('pets') in the USA than live wild in Asia (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/oct/11/its-pretty-messed-up-wildlife-photographer-of-the-year-americans-deadly-love-for-tigers). The whole story basically show the economic difference between 'fads' that can be paid for by 'enthusiasts' and conservation. Conservation also costs money but it also requires making political decisions and nobody gets to own the tiger! It just doesn't have the same power as tigers for display by the rich and powerful. Tiggers are not just big pussy cats but they can be status symbols!