How Fast Does a Tiger Run?
Tigers are beautiful animals that are easily recognizable by the striped pattern of their coat. Tigers are the largest members of the big cat family. These solitary hunters use camouflage, short bursts of speed and agile leaps to catch their prey.
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Types
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There are six living subspecies of tiger including the Siberian, Bengal, Malayan, Indochinese, South China and Sumatran tigers. All tiger species are currently endangered. The South Chinese tiger is listed as one of the 10 most endangered animals and is on the verge of extinction. It is estimated that there are less than 20 of them in the wild. Although these tigers remain in reserves, they are considered functionally extinct. Three subspecies of tigers that are extinct include the Bali, Caspian and Javan tigers. Tigers have become endangered due to illegal hunting and loss of habitat.
Features
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Each tiger has a unique stripe pattern somewhat similar to the fingerprint pattern of individual human beings. Tigers have strong legs and large padded feet. Their claws are retractable. A tiger uses its tail for balance, especially when running fast. They have distinct white spots on the back of the ears that give the appearance of eyes. The function of these spots remains uncertain although it is believed they serve to deter attacks from the rear. Tigers have excellent night vision and an acute sense of hearing.
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Significance
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Tigers are carnivores. Their diet consists wholly of meat. Tigers range in size from eight to 10 feet in length and weigh between 200 and 400 pounds. They are solitary animals that live and hunt alone. Tigers make a kill about twice a week and eat as much as they can at one time. Most hunts are not successful and one out of possibly 10 or more hunts usually results in a kill. Tigers silently stalk their prey. They use their powerful jaws, legs and body mass to their advantage when hunting. Tigers can reach speeds of 35 to 45 miles per hour in short bursts. They are very agile and can make excellent leaps. Tigers mainly prey on wild boar and deer although they will stalk other animals as well. They are known to prey on domestic animals, such as cattle, especially if there is insufficient prey.
Geography
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Tigers live in a wide range of habitats consisting mainly of forests, savannas, swamps and grasslands. They are found in India, Nepal, Malaysia, Siberia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Cambodia and other areas. A small portion of tigers still remain in China.
Considerations
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Tigers are most active at night. They have excellent night vision as well as an acute sense of hearing. Their whiskers also help them to navigate in the dark. Tigers use a variety of vocalizations to communicate with each other. Tigers mark their territory by spraying urine much the same way a domestic cat does. The lifespan of these big cats is 15 to 20 years in the wild, although they may live longer in captivity.
Potential
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Female tigers give birth to a litter of two to seven cubs after a gestation period of 103 days. Newborn cubs are completely dependent on their mothers. Their vision develops in a couple of weeks following birth. The mother will leave her cubs only for short periods of time to hunt. If she perceives any threat she will move them immediately. Tiger cubs will begin to eat solid food at six to eight weeks of age but aren't fully weaned until they are six months old.
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Resources
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