Bengal Tiger

The most iconic of the tiger subspecies, Bengal tigers can be distinguished from other subspecies by their short reddish-orange fur crossed with narrow brown, grey or black stripes, although there are also white tigers. This pattern is unique for every individual.

Found in Bengal’s varied jungle, humid evergreen forests and mangrove swamps, this magnificent animal faces an uncertain future. With the population of India increasing, the natural habitats of the tiger are being destroyed to meet increasing demand for human settlements. The tigers are also hunted by farmers who blame them for killing cattle.

The other major threat faced by the tigers is poaching. Tiger bones and teeth are used in India and China as aphrodisiacs and medicines that are alleged to provide the tiger's strength. They are also poached for their pelts.

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Common Name: Bengal Tiger

Scientific Name: Panthera tigris tigris

Status: Endangered

Population: Between 3,000 and 4,500

Lifespan: 15 to 20 years

Range: Primarily the mangrove swamps, humid forest and swamplands of the Sunderbans in India. Sparse populations exist in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal and China

Threats: Habitat alteration, direct persecution through hunting

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