Facts, Information, Scientific Name of Bengal Tiger
Let us understand the life cycle of this top-most carnivore, whose conservation concern can help us in protecting a variety and a large number of Habitats.
Name – Bengal Tiger
Scientific Name – Panthera tigris tigris
‘Pandhara’ – white and pale yellow (‘Pandhara’ word come from a local language)
‘Panthera’ – that which is hunted
Size – 283cm-311 cm
Type – Mammal
Appearance, Habit and Hunting.
A large roar and big pugmark are seen in dense, tropical forests and mangrove areas.
In the countries of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, etc, the big cat-like animal which is yellow to light orange, with a black and white striped body is spotted in a large undisturbed forest habitat. A Tiger ! the name has goosebumps as this strong animal has great paws with a white belly. A tough stride to run fast and catch prey. A carnivore with large Canines that tear and trapped the prey in one bite. This is an Animal that can also hunt bulky animals like elephants and defensive Animals like crocodiles. Tigers can swim through lakes and rivers to cross paths. They lead a solitary lifestyle and hunt individually. They established their territory at age of 2-3 years. They mark the trees with their urine and pass the scent to beware the other Tigers.
Breeding and the role of Female Tigers.
There is no specific mating season for the Tiger. Mature males of 4-5 years and females of 3-4 years can mate. Females are very protective of their cubs. The role of Females in Litter survival is very influential. She is busy in taking constant care of cubs until they makes it on their own. She has to provide food, which is a big task of Hunting as well as she has to keep them sound and safe from other Tigers. There is usually no kinship(family care)witnessed among Male Tiger.
The Female carries cubs for 104-106 days. She gives birth to the Litter of 1-4 cubs in the cave or tall grass. A young one with thick furand closed eyes and years need alot of care and nursing for 3-6 months. After 5-6 months the cubs hunt with their mother. At the age of 2 years, the cubs are solitary and ready to establish their territory.
Conservation status.
The Bengal Tiger population is decreasing due to poaching and Human Tiger conflict.
Human Tiger conflict is due to Habitat destruction. This animal which requires a lot of area is now having human intruders and due to the vanishing jungle, hence Tiger cannot sustain hunger, which leads them to feed on cattle and Humans. The mighty animal that is a top carnivore in the food chain, balances the large areas of jungle and maintains a variety of ecosystems is misunderstood, considered as a threat and is killed at last. The Tiger estimation project is being proceeded and the count of Tigers is carried out every year.
Also See ⇒ Caracal Facts