Identification
The tiger is the undisputed heavyweight of the cat world, a masterpiece of muscularity and stealth. Look for its iconic "flame" coat—ranging from burnt orange to deep reddish-ochre—interrupted by dark, vertical stripes that are as unique to an individual as a human fingerprint. Key field marks include the white patches on the belly and face, and the prominent **ocelli**: white spots on the back of the ears that act as "false eyes" to deter predators from behind. Unlike the lanky leopard or the social, maned lion, the tiger’s heavy-set, elongated frame is built for power and camouflage in dense undergrowth.
Habitat & Range
While their range has shrunk dramatically, tigers are incredibly adaptable. They haunt the frozen birch forests of the Russian Far East (Siberian), the humid, tidal mangroves of the Sundarbans, and the tall alluvial grasslands of the Himalayan foothills. They require three things to thrive: dense cover for stalking, proximity to water, and a high density of large ungulates.
Behaviour
Tigers are solitary "ghosts" of the forest. Unlike most felids, they are exceptional swimmers and frequently soak in pools to cool off. They are primarily crepuscular, moving with silent purpose at dawn and dusk. In the field, you may find "scrapes" in the dirt or "scat" laced with deer hair—territorial signposts for other cats. While they are fierce defenders of their range, they communicate through a soft, friendly snort known as a **prusten** or "chuff."
Diet
As apex ambush predators, tigers focus on large-bodied prey. Their diet consists mainly of deer (like Sambar and Chital), wild boar, and occasionally gaur. They hunt by stealth, getting within a few meters before launching a powerful spring to deliver a crushing bite to the throat or nape.
Fascinating Fact
If you were to shave a tiger, you would find that its stripes aren't just fur-deep; the dark pattern is actually pigmented directly onto the skin itself!