Siberian (Amur) Tiger
Scientific Name: Panthera tigris altaica
Habitat: forests and mountains
Diet: prefer deer and wild boar; also small mammals
Life span: 8–10 years in wild (12–18 years in captivity)
Young: 2–3 cubs/litter
Size: 167–186 kg (368-410 lbs); females smaller
Amur tigers are the largest of all cats. Their thick fur helps to keep them warm in the cold, snowy forests and mountains of Russia. Their black stripes blend in with the dappled light of the forest, making them invisible from enemies and prey. Unlike most cats, they are excellent swimmers and avid bathers.
Amur tigers are typically solitary animals. They establish a territory by scent marking and scratching the ground or trees with their claws. The territory of a male often overlaps that of several females. Males and females stay together for only a few days for breeding and then separate. Fifteen weeks later, the cubs are born. The mother raises her cubs alone. They stay with her for three to four years before striking out on their own. Females give birth every three to four years.
What is your zoo doing to help?
Species Survival Plan
The Species Survival Plan (SSP) consists of co-operative, coordinated breeding programs for captive endangered species throughout the world. Species Survival Plans are not a substitute for preserving animals in nature but are a strategy for creating healthy, self-sustaining, captive populations that can be reintroduced into restored or secured habitats.
Learn more about this species:
These are some other websites that we think have more great information about this species.
Amur tiger on Animal Diversity Web
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
Range
Range: eastern Russia in the Amurussuri region of Primorye and Khabarovsk
Status in the Wild
Status: endangered
