Wild Times Archive
Creature Feature

Amur Tiger

September 24, 2019 | by |
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Amur tigers – also known as Siberian tigers – are the largest cats in the world. They are found in a northern climate that is far harsher than that of other tigers. However, the northern forests have the lowest human density of any other tiger habitat. Their birch forest home also gives them far more room to roam than other tigers enjoy. Amur tigers are renowned for their power and strength, and unlike other cats they are excellent climbers and swimmers.

Tigers use their distinctive stripes as camouflage while they are hunting. Similar to a human’s fingerprints, no two tigers have the same striped pattern. Amur tigers are different from other subspecies of tigers because they have fewer, paler stripes. They also have manes and very thick fur, which helps keep them warm.

All tigers are endangered with a decreasing population trend. The Amur tiger population is currently stable at approximately 540 mature individuals in the wild. The Edmonton Valley Zoo is part of the Amur tiger Species Survival Plan – an international coordinated breeding program for captive endangered species.

Our zoo is home to two tigers – Amba and Taiga.

Amur tigers average 3.3 metres (11 feet) in length, with tails measuring 1 m (3 ft). Adult males can weigh up to 320 kg (700 lbs) while females weigh up to 180 kg (400 lbs).

A small region in southeastern Russia. Small populations can also be found in the border areas of China and North Korea.

Amur tigers are carnivores and are skilled hunters. They prey on elk, boar, bears, and deer, and will also hunt smaller animals like rabbits and fish. They usually eat around 9 kg (20 lbs) of meat in one sitting but can eat up to 27 kg (60 lbs) when they are very hungry.

They are solitary animals and will scent mark their areas to keep other tigers away. They roam vast areas and hunt often. They hunt by silently stalking their prey and then pouncing quickly.

After a gestation period of approximately 15 weeks, tigers will give birth to between two and six cubs. The females raise the young with no help from the males. Cubs will remain with their mother until they are two or three years old.

16-18 years; more than 20 in captivity

THREATS

Deforestation and hunting. Tigers are hunted as trophies and also for body parts that are used in traditional Chinese medicine.

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