Fun Facts About Siberian Tigers
Are Siberian Tigers White?
Even though Siberian tigers live in very snowy regions of Russia and China, their coats don’t actually blend into their surroundings! Tigers that live in India and surrounding countries are actually the ones the ones that carry the genes for white fur. But sometimes, white Bengal tigers have been bred with Siberian tigers to increase tiger populations. And even though Siberian tigers aren’t white, they have developed a coat that is lighter in color than other species.
How Different Are Siberian Tigers From Bengal Tigers?
When most people think of the word “tiger,” they picture the Bengal tiger. While Siberian tigers are similar to Bengals, there are some differences. Not only are Siberian coats lighter in color (even their stripes), but they are thicker as well. After all, they live in a habitat where temperatures dive below zero! While tigers are the biggest species of wild cats, the Siberian tiger is actually larger than its Bengal cousin. Bengals weigh about 500 lbs, but Siberian tigers can weigh 700 lbs!
How Do Siberian Tigers Hunt — And What Do They Eat?
Siberian tigers often hunt small game like rabbits and fish. However, they are extremely cunning, and they aren’t afraid to take down large animals. They have been known to take down elk, wolves, and even bears. Some scientists have even found that some tigers are talented enough to copy bear calls and attract their prey. If a Siberian tiger spots a bear, they usually wait patiently on high ground, behind trees and rocks. Once a bear passes a hiding spot, a Siberian tiger will immobilize it by going for the throat and spine. While bears aren’t killed very often, their fat deposits make a great dinner for Siberian tigers.
Do People See Siberian Tigers Often
Sadly, Siberian tigers have been driven further and further away from their natural habitats. And since they live in such cold regions, not many people get a glimpse of one in the wild. In fact, there are more Siberian tigers living in captivity now than in the wild! But even though they are an endangered species, there is hope. There numbers have grown from about 40 tigers to a few hundred.
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