Ecology and Research

Tiger Behaviour

Living Alone :
Tiger is a solitary animal unlike lions. However there is a temporary bond between the tigeress and cubs till the latter come of age.

Territory :
The size of a tiger's territory depends on the amount of food available, antipredator strategy of prey, distribution of welfare factors and usually range,season, from about 10 to 30 square miles (26-200 sq. km). Males live alone, but tiger territories overlap. Generally, several female territorie are encompassed within the territory of a male. The animal advertises its presence through scent markings. The constitution of the territories and their ownerships, although stable over periods of time, are nonetheless subject to change, in tune with the relative prowess of individuals occupying a habitat at a given point of time. Territorial definition weakens in unique habitats like Sunderbans.

Olfaction and Audition :
They play an important part in the social behaviour of tigers. Tigers mark their territories by spraying the bushes and trees with a special mixture of urine and scent gland secretions. The auditory capabilities of tigers are also highly developed & are able to trace the origin of sound.

Eating :
Tigers are carnivorous & hunt for prey primarily by sight and sound. They feed on dear, wild pig, bovids and even other predators like leopards and bears. But ungulates like - hoofed animals such as deer and wild pigs are mostly their prey. Tigers eat in bouts.