Did you know that the Sunda Tiger (Panthera tigris sondaica) is one of the most critically endangered subspecies of tigers in the world, according to a census conducted in 2008, with an estimated population of about 500–600 remaining in the wild?
Brief on Sundra Tiger
Sundra Tiger is a specie of tiger that live in the tropical rainforests, freshwater swamp forests and peat swamps of the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. Sundra tigers are a subspecies of tigers; there are three tigers in this category, they are Javan Tigers, Bali Tigers, and Sumatran Tigers.
The Javan and Bali are now extinct; only the Sumatran tiger is in existence. Hence, the Sumatran tiger is often referred to as the Sundra Tiger. however, habitat loss, poaching, and lack of prey have led to Sundra Tigers’ current critically endangered status.
Sundra Tigers possess unique physical characteristics; they have smaller body size compared to other tiger subspecies Their stripes are the narrowest and the closest together, as well as the longer whiskers of all tigers. Sundra Tigers also have the darkest yellow coat color of all existing tiger species.
What Does The Sunda Tiger Eat
The Sunda Tiger’s diet plays a crucial role in their survival, population dynamics, and overall conservation. Sundra Tigers are carnivores; they feed on a variety of species that are found throughout their habitat. Sundra tigers primarily eat fish, deer, antelopes, rabbits, wild boar, and primates. These animals provide the essential nutrients and energy required for their survival.
Fish is common in Sundra Tiger’s diet because these sub-species of tiger are excellent swimmers making it easy to target fish in the existing water bodies. Similarly, the high population of deer in the habitat makes deer a stable food for Sundra Tiger. Additionally, on days when deer are out of sight, the wild boars are alternative prey for Sundra Tigers. Lastly, primates like monkeys are preyed on by the agile Sunda Tigers.
Hunting Techniques of the Sunda Tiger
Sunda tigers, like other types of tigers, are skilled predators with impressive hunting techniques. These techniques involve stealthy movements, silent stalking, and patiently awaiting the perfect moment to pounce. Sunda tigers attack their prey through stalking, strategic ambush, and camouflage, on close range, Sunda tigers run fiercely to grab the prey.
A vulnerable prey is grabbed by the neck till its last breath before it is devoured by the tiger. Sunda Tiger loves to hunt alone. Aside from hunting on land, Sunda tigers are the most skilled at catching fish; they are prolific swimmers with their fully webbed feet.
Sunda Tiger hunting ability is favored by their physical attributes; they have powerful jaws and sharp claws for precise apprehension of prey. Their speed and agility help them can overpower their prey swiftly and efficiently. The hind legs of Sunda Tigers are built for speed when launching an attack on sighted prey.
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In conclusion,
The Sunda tigers are carnivorous and have a varied diet. These tigers have the strength to attack small and large prey in their habitat. Sunda Tiger is a critically endangered subspecies. Although it is illegal to hunt the tiger, poaching does still take place. The tiger is also vulnerable to habitat loss, as logging and other activities continue to deplete its range.