Tiger

The tiger is a large wild cat species in the genus Panthera and the largest living cat species.

The tiger is a large wild cat species in the genus Panthera and the largest living cat species. It is an apex predator native to parts of Asia, where it inhabits forests, grasslands, and mangrove swamps. Wild tiger populations remain threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

Taxonomy and description

Tiger refers to the species Panthera tigris, a large feline in the cat family Felidae. It is the largest living cat species and is known for its orange coat with black stripes.

Habitat and distribution

Tigers are native to Asia and are found in a patchy range across South and Southeast Asia, China, and the Russian Far East. They occupy a variety of habitats, especially forests, but also grasslands and mangrove swamps.

Diet and hunting

Tigers are obligate carnivores and hunt mainly medium to large mammals, especially deer and wild boar. They can also take other animals such as buffalo, monkeys, and crocodiles when available.

Conservation

Tigers are endangered, with wild populations reduced by habitat loss, poaching, and fragmentation of their range. Conservation efforts focus on protecting habitat, prey species, and reducing conflict with humans.