Tigers, the planet's most giant cats, captivate observers with their distinctive markings and mighty roars. Despite their mesmerizing presence, tigers are confronted with an alarming risk of extinction, surpassing that all other cat species face.

As one of Earth's myriad creatures, it's worthwhile to explore the uniqueness of tigers. Let's delve into some intriguing facts about these majestic animals.

1. Ancient Existence:

Tigers have roamed the Earth for over two million years. In the early 20th century, the global wild tiger population was around 100,000. Sadly, today, only approximately 3,900 wild tigers remain. Human influence, spanning just a century, has led to a staggering 97% decline in their numbers.

2. Habitat in Asia:

Wild tigers are exclusive to Asia, having once inhabited diverse environments from dense rainforests to dry grasslands. Their historical territory covered Afghanistan, the Indus Valley, and Java.

3. Human Impact:

The primary driver of tiger extinction is human activity. Over the last 150 years, rampant poaching and the destruction of natural habitats have slashed tiger habitats by more than 95%.

4. Indian Dominance:

India is the habitat for over half of the world's remaining wild tigers, boasting a population of approximately 3,000 individuals.

5. Distinct Markings:

Each tiger's markings are as unique as a human fingerprint. Experts leverage these distinct patterns to identify and estimate tiger populations using camera trap photographs.

6. Adaptability:

Tigers showcase remarkable adaptability, thriving in various environments such as rainforests, grasslands, savannahs, mangroves, and swamps. They can endure extreme temperatures, showcasing their resilience.

7. Communication with Ears:

Tigers communicate using distinctive white spots on their ears, resembling eyes. This function serves as a protective mechanism against predators and a method of communication among tigers, significantly facilitating interaction between a tigress and her cubs.

8. Roaring Power:

A tiger's roar can resonate over several kilometres. Tigers exhibit a range of vocalizations conveying different messages, from powerful growls to cat-like grunts.

9. Silent Hunters:

With their soft paw pads, tigers move silently during hunts, covering 10 to 19 kilometres at night.

10. Eating Habits:

Tigers, mainly preying on deer, only require one substantial weekly meal. Their success rate in hunts is approximately one in ten attempts.

11. Solitary Lifestyle:

Tigers are predominantly solitary animals, except for the time spent by mothers raising their cubs. Each tiger requires a vast territory directly linked to prey availability.

12. Forest Guardians:

Tigers play a vital role in safeguarding forests. Protecting a tiger means preserving the ecological balance of its territory, encompassing approximately 10,000 hectares of forests that supply essential resources like fresh air, clean water, food, and medicinal plants.