Panthera tigris

Tigers are solitary and territorial carnivores known for their strength, agility, and stealth. They are apex predators and primarily hunt large ungulates such as deer, wild boar, and water buffalo. Tigers are nocturnal hunters and rely on their keen senses of sight, hearing, and smell to locate prey.

Breeding can occur throughout the year, with females typically giving birth to a litter of 2 to 4 cubs after a gestation period of around 3 to 4 months. Cubs are born blind and rely on their mother for care and protection. Tigers reach sexual maturity at around 3 to 4 years of age.

Tigers are the largest members of the cat family, characterized by their distinctive orange coat with black stripes. They have powerful jaws and sharp claws, which they use for hunting and defending their territory. Tigers have a muscular build and can weigh up to 300 kilograms (660 pounds).

Tigers have long captivated human imagination and have been revered as symbols of power, strength, and beauty in various cultures. However, they have also been hunted and persecuted due to conflicts with humans and poaching for their skins and body parts.

Tigers are classified as endangered, with populations declining due to habitat loss, fragmentation, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement, are crucial for their survival. Despite these efforts, tigers continue to face significant threats to their existence.