The
Royal Bengal tiger is scientifically known as 'Panthera tigris' is an
eminent member of the cat family. The origin of the cat family from what we
know today is Siberia. From there, they migrated down south as the climate
became colder. In Asia, India and Malaysia are the two prominent countries
where tigers live. The Indian tigers, the Royal Bengal tigers are the most
graceful animals found in Sundarban in Bengal.
Distribution of the species:
The Bengal Tiger or Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is a
subspecies of tiger found through the rainforests and grasslands of
Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, China, India and Nepal. These tigers are also
found in Siberia, Manchuria and the Asian continent. It is the largest
living member of the Felidae family. Its fur is orange-brown with black
stripes. Male Bengal Tigers are up to 10 ft (3 m) long. Females are up to 9
ft (2.7 m) long. They hunt deer, pigs, antelopes, cattle, young elephants,
and buffalo. The Bengal Tiger is now strictly protected, and is the national
animal of both India and Bangladesh.
Habitat & Diet:
The tiger lives in varied habitats open jungles, humid evergreen forests
and mango grove swamps. Its diet consists mainly of deer, antelopes, gaurs
and wild pigs. Sometimes it also captures birds, lizards, turtles, fishes,
frogs and crabs. Tigers hunt on their own and usually lead a solitary
existence, each in its own territory. They are endowed with good swimming
power but seldom climb trees.
Breeding
& Genetic variation:
Breeding of tigers are done very carefully in many zoological gardens.
Recently a cub was born in the calcutta zoo. These newborns are genetically
different due to genetic recombination. This feature is known as genetic
variation. It is an important component for a living being to adopt itself
in the nature. This genetic variations help them to fight against any odds.
Ecological status:
The reproductive level of these creatures is very low. They become sexually
mature at the age of 3-4 years and females give birth to only 2-4 cubs in
every two years. Usually, one or two cubs die at the early age. Habitat
destruction and poaching decrease the numbers of these animals in the wild.
Ask questions about royal bengal tiger cats when visiting breeders.
