Classic Moments in the Forest


Indian Peafowl | Blackbuck | Elephant | Spotted Deer | Common Langur
Wild Boar | Indian Gaur | Tiger | Sambar | Sloth Bear | Leopard
Nilgiri Tahr




Photograph by K.M.B. Prasad, A.R.P.S., A.F.I.A.P.

Tiger (Kabini, Karnataka )

» SCIENTIFIC NAME: Panthera tigris
» KANNADA NAME: Huli

A symbol of strength, stealth and courage, the tiger is believed to possess a level of intelligence next only to that of the higher apes and, of course, man.

The tiger is designed for hunting: its fawn-orange coat, with darker stripes, provides perfect camouflage; it has a strong body; heavily-muscled forelegs and shoulders; powerful, sharp retractable claws; soft footpads that silence its steps and a strong head, to absorb the stress of its ferocious killing bite. A tiger's hearing and vision are acute, enabling it to silently stalk its prey, usually at night.

Being both good swimmers and tree-climbers, tigers can lead an almost amphibious life. They are not very social creatures.

Description: Average length and weight: Between 9'–9' 6" (275-290 cm.) and around 400-500 lb. (180-230 kg.) for males; females are smaller at about 8' 6" (260 cm.) and 300-400 lb. (135-185 kg.). Lifespan: about 20 years.

Distribution: Almost throughout India, except the deserts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Kutch and Sind.

Habits and habitat: Most active in cold and rainy seasons, wandering 15 to 20 miles away from their territory.

Natural enemies: Injuries and fights between males; disease and man.

Food: Elephants (females or calves), gaur, buffalo, deer, nilgai, wild pig, porcupines, panthers and even other tigers. If forced to, will eat almost anything: fowl, fish, reptiles or carrion.

Breeding habits: May not be monogamous. Gestation period usually 15-16 weeks. A litter usually comprises 2-3 cubs, but up to 6 have been recorded. The female rears her young alone.