VERY INTERESTING: SIBERIAN TIGER

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Facts About The Siberian Tiger

A Siberian tiger in its native habitat in Siberia, Russia.

The Siberian tiger is a subspecies of tiger commonly found in Russia’s Far East region and Northern China. It is known by several names depending on the region where it is observed. Some of these names include Manchurian tiger, Amur tiger, Ussurian tiger, and Korean tiger. The Siberian tiger is listed as Threatened in the IUCN Red List because of the dwindling numbers. Its hunting is fully prohibited and punishable. From its physical appearance to behavior and hunting technique, this subspecies of tiger in unique in every way. Here are some of the fascinating facts about the Siberian tiger.

The Largest Cat In The World

The Siberian tiger is the largest subspecies of tiger and the world’s largest cat. An adult tiger averages 70-82 inches in head and body length, with the male being larger than the female tiger. The male averages 77 inches while the female averages 72 inches. Its long and flexible tail measures 39 inches in male and 36 inches in the female. Historically, a wild male Siberian tiger weighed 475 pounds while the female weighed 303 pounds. However, the contemporary tigers weigh an average of 389 pounds but can weigh up to 600 pounds. One specimen raised in captivity weighed an impressive 1025 pounds. The second-largest cat is the lion, followed by the jaguar, cougar, and leopard respectively.

Mainly Found In Russia

About 95% of the Siberian tigers in the world are found in eastern Russia. A small population inhabits Northern China but the number depends on the movement of tigers crossing China’s border with Russia. Although the tigers ascribe to two small areas in Russia, their range is greater than other subspecies of tigers. The animals can travel considerably (up to 1,000 km from south to north in eastern Russia) in search of food. The Amur tigers are mainly found in Sikhote-Alin Mountains and Primorye and a small number inhabit the mountain system of East Manchuria.

The Only Tiger That Can Survive In The Snow

The Amur tiger is the only subspecies of tiger that can survive in extremely cold areas. It is has developed certain physical characteristics that enable it to endure the cold climate of its habitat. The tiger has a thick layer of fat that insulates the body against heat loss. Additionally, the thick, dense fur that covers its body keeps the animal warm, especially when it is extremely cold. The Siberia tiger is always on the move and does not idle for long. The constant movement ensures that the body generates a lot of heat to keep it warm.

No Two Tigers Have The Same Striped Pattern

The Siberian tigers can be distinguished by their striped fur. Just like humans with unique fingerprints, no two Amur tigers have the same striped fur pattern. The striped pattern is unique for every tiger. Although the ground color of the pelage is generally pale, it varies in length, form, and sometimes in color from one individual to the other. In general, the fur is moderately thick, sparse, and coarse compared to other felids living in Russia. The summer coat is brighter than the winter coat.

Solitary And Territorial Animal

Unlike lions that form a pride of up to 12 females or 3 males, Siberian tigers are generally solitary and territorial animals. They usually mark rocks and trees to establish their territories. Rarely do they walk or hunt in groups except when a female tiger is taking care of her cubs. However, even the cubs are trained to hunt as early as eight weeks by their mother and soon become independent. A male’s territory can take up to 100 square kilometers and that of a female is around 20 square kilometers. The male tiger can allow 2-4 female tigers into its territory and even share a meal with them.

Eats Up To 27 Kg When Hungry

Although the Siberian tiger eats an average of 8-10 kg of meat in one sitting, it can consume up to 27 kg when hungry. The Amur tigers are not always successful on its hunt mission. It can take 20-30 minutes stalking its prey until it is closer enough to pounce on it. It uses its striped fur to camouflage and hides from its targeted prey. When successful, the tiger drags the captured prey to a secluded place before feasting on it. Siberian tigers mainly feed on hoofed animals such as bears, deer, boars, and elk. They also feed on smaller species such as fish, rabbits, hares, and pikas.

And as always have a chilled day from the Viking