Did You Know?
Tigers are in crisis...
Tigers worldwide are critically endangered, with only 3,500 remaining in the wild—a fraction of the 100,000 a century ago.
Three (3) subspecies (Caspian, Bali and Javan) have gone extinct in the last 70 years, and the Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) faces imminent extinction without urgent intervention. The Malayan tiger is granted Totally Protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act of 2010. It holds the disheartening classification of being Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List for Threatened Species
Note: Malaysia's wild Malayan tiger population has dwindled to fewer than 150 (as of 2022)
1. Tigers are the largest wild cat species in the world
Male tigers can tip the scales at a whopping 300 kilograms—that's like having six average humans stacked on top of you! Imagine one lounging on you, licking its paws—you'd be toast in no time!
Note: The Royal Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) are the heavyweight champs of the wild cat world. They roam the wilds of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal.
2. Tigers roar in 'infrasound'
Tigers wield a mighty roar that can be heard from miles away. Even more fascinatingly, they produce low-pitched infrasonic sounds below human hearing, which are felt rather than heard by those nearby.
3. Female tigers usually give birth to blind cubs
On average, tiger cubs open their eyes between 6 to 14 days after birth, but their vision is still developing. Their mother plays a crucial role during this time, fiercely protecting them while providing essential care—nursing, warmth, and grooming—until their sight matures.
They depend on their mother's scent for guidance. While challenges like hunger and exposure exist, the tigress's protective care increases their chances of survival. Male tigers are hardly ever seen pitching in to raise their cubs—it's typically a solo gig for the tiger moms!
4. Tigers are good swimmer
Tigers have a unique affinity for water, unlike many other cats. Living in hot climates, their large bodies quickly overheat, prompting them to seek relief in rivers or lakes. They not only swim for pleasure but also spend extended periods lounging in water to stay cool during the sweltering heat of the day.
5. Tiger Spit is a Natural Antiseptic!
Unlike humans, tigers have a secret weapon in their saliva: lysozyme enzymes. These powerful enzymes act like tireless bodyguards, constantly protecting tigers from infections .
Lysozyme destroy bacterial cell walls, preventing infections and helping tigers stay healthy in the wild. This natural defense is crucial for tigers, as they often sustain injuries while hunting or fighting.
Join Us in Protecting Tigers!
Together, we can make a difference and ensure a future where tigers and humans can thrive together. Take action now.