Panthera tigrisis one of the most enigmatic creatures in the animal kingdom. Secretive and solitary, this powerful apex predator is a source of endless intrigue to humans.For nature lovers, the opportunity to see it in its natural habitat on a Tiger safari is a much sought after experience. Travelling with an organised small group led by an expert naturalist guide is the only safe and responsible way to encounter this beautiful big cat in the wild.
Understanding some of the animal’s basic behaviours and physiologyis key to making the most of an organised Tiger safari, but there are also some fascinating lesser-known facts that will serve to offer an even greater insight.
Their Colour Varies
While the iconic image is of a striking orange and black striped coat, in fact they vary greatly depending on the genes passed down. A Tiger’s coat can be anything from white (caused by a recessive gene) to pale yellow, bright golden, right through to a deep burnt orange. The stripes, which are unique to each animal, can also be very different colours – ranging from broad and dark to sparse, thin and brown.
Big Brain, Great Memory
The Tiger has the largest brain of all carnivorous animals (around 300gm) and their short-term memory is far superior to ours – lasting up to 30 times longer. This is due to their brains possessing very strong synapses (the link between nerve cells), allowing them to not only remember larger volumes of information, but also to retain it longer.
The Eyes Have It
While the vast majority have the distinctive burning yellow eyes for which they’re so renowned, the recessive gene that results in white fur is also linked with the gene for blue eyes. In an interesting twist of nature, that same gene is also linked to the gene for being cross-eyed – so white fur and blue, crossed eyes are the result.
A Cat – But No Purr
Because they have a flexible larynx bone, the low vibrating sound of a purr that we associate with their more diminutive domestic cousins is not something big wild cats can achieve (with the exception of the Cheetah). Instead, Panthera tigris communicates its description or happiness by a non-threatening vocalisation, where it blows out through its nostrils while keeping the mouth closed, called prusten – aka “chuffingâ€.
Their Urine Tells a Story
Tigers defend their territories ferociously, but sometimes an adult male’s range will overlap with numerous females. In order to denote their territory they create scratch marks on trees, which they then spray with urine. The properties of the urine are unique to each animal and others of the species are able to discern gender, age and reproductive condition from the scent.
In recent decades,scientists and naturalists have expanded their knowledge of this magnificent animal, but it still remains something of a mystery. For those with a desire to get up as close and personal as possible to it in its natural habitat, a Tiger safari to the Indian sub-continent offers a truly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer with a special interest in Tiger watching. As a passionate lover ofwildlife, 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.
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