Bengal tiger

Bengal Tiger

The Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is one of the tiger subspecies native to the Indian subcontinent. It is the national animal of both India and Bangladesh. Bengal tigers are the most numerous of tiger subspecies, however, they are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to various threats such as poaching and habitat loss.

Description

Bengal tigers are known for their distinctive coat, which is typically a warm orange color with a white underbelly and black stripes. The pattern of stripes is unique to each individual. They are the largest members of the cat family and one of the biggest carnivores on land.

Habitat and Distribution

Bengal tigers are predominantly found in India, with smaller populations in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. They inhabit a variety of habitats including grasslands, subtropical and tropical rainforests, scrub forests, wet and dry deciduous forests, and mangroves.

Behavior and Diet

Bengal tigers are solitary animals, with males and females coming together only for mating. They are primarily nocturnal and have a territory which they mark with their scent. Their diet mainly consists of large ungulates such as deer, buffalo, and wild boar.

Conservation

Despite being the most numerous tiger subspecies, Bengal tigers face numerous threats. Habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and particularly poaching for their fur and body parts are major threats. Conservation efforts are being made by various organizations and governments to protect this iconic species.

See Also

• Tiger
• Indian subcontinent
• Endangered species
• Conservation biology

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