Anatomy Of A Big Cat: Physical Characteristics Of The Tiger

A Tiger safari to the dedicated nature reserves of the Indian sub-continent affords a privileged glimpse into the life and habitat of one of the most intriguing members of the animal kingdom. This elusive big cat is among the most sought after sightings for nature lovers.Joining an organised Tiger safari is the only safe and responsible way to enjoy such a memorable encounter.

Learning more about the specieswill help to identify not only its powerful physical characteristics, but also its behavioural ones.

Size

Panthera tigris is the largest of all extant big cats and the animal’s size depends on its subspecies, climate, habitat, prey sources and where it is distributed. An adult can weigh up to as much as 295kg and measure as long as 4m from nose to the tip of the tail, with females generally smaller than the males. The subspecies in the northern latitudes are larger (Siberia, China), while those in the lower latitudes tend to be smaller (Sumatra).

Teeth

As a carnivore and an apex predator, they have the largest canine teeth of all the big cats. Each canine tooth can measure up to 7.6cm and they are used as a formidable and precise killing tool when severing the spinal cord of their prey. The rest of the teeth are razor sharp, and while the back ones are used to strip a carcass of its flesh almost indiscriminately, the front incisors can get into even the smallest parts.

Coat

The most iconic feature of the Tiger isits magnificent orange and black striped coat, which can vary greatly in tone from pale yellow to deep russet (and white, in the case of a recessive gene). The pattern and width of the stripes is unique to an individual, just like our human fingerprints. The striking stripes are not just for aesthetic appeal,and their purpose is to camouflage the animal from their potential prey, by breaking up the colour of the coat and making them harder to see. A lesser-known fact is that their skin is also striped beneath the fur.

Tail

An adult male’s tail can reach up to a metre in length and is one of its most important communication tools. When they are relaxed the tail hangs slackly, but when they become agitated or aggressive they will hold it very low, accompanied by some twitches, or swing it quickly from side to side.

Vision

Although they have good eyesight in the daylight hours, theirnight vision is extraordinary – with capabilities up to six times greater than a human. This is due to the increased number of ‘rods’ in their eyes,which enable them to discern movement of prey in the dark. They are crepuscular animals, so are very active in the twilight hours and tend to hunt almost exclusively under the cover of darkness.

Encounter the Elusive Panthera tigris

The opportunity to observe the majestic Panthera tigris in its wild and beautiful habitat in the Indian subcontinent is one of the most memorable experiences a wildlife lover can enjoy. Taking in some of the country’s most magnificent national parks and reserves, a Tiger safari is the most ecologically responsible way in which to encounter this remarkable big cat.

Author Plate

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer with a special interest in Tiger watching. As a passionate lover of wildlife, Marissa chooses the expert-led Tiger safari itineraries organised by Naturetrek, which have brought her unforgettable sightings of a wide range of species in some of the most spectacular regions on Earth.