Tiger
- scientific name
:
Panthera tigris - top speed
:
65 km/h - order
:
Carnivora
Size
The tiger is the largest cat species and a member of the genus Panthera. It is muscular, with a rounded head, a thick neck and a stocky body. Its fur is orange-brown with black stripes.
LifeSpan
In the wild, tigers live 8-10 years on average. In captivity with proper care, they can live over 20 years.
Conservation Status
Endangered due to habitat loss, poaching and human-wildlife conflict. Tiger populations have declined significantly.
Distribution
Tigers inhabit various forest, grassland and wetland habitats across South and Southeast Asia. Their range has shrunk dramatically.
Coevolution
As a charismatic megafauna species, tigers hold great cultural significance and are revered in many Asian cultures as a symbol of strength and courage. They have been featured extensively in folklore, mythology, art and literature. Tiger parts are also used in traditional Asian medicine, fueling the illegal wildlife trade that threatens wild tigers.
Nutrition
As obligate carnivores, tigers mainly consume large ungulates like deer, wild pigs, buffalo and cattle. They occasionally eat smaller prey and are opportunistic hunters.
Lifestyle
Tigers are solitary animals that establish and defend their own territories. They are largely nocturnal and very elusive. Tigers are stealthy ambush hunters that rely on camouflage, stealth and the element of surprise to catch prey. They are strong swimmers and very agile.