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What Is a Sumatran Tiger?

Angie Bates
Angie Bates

A Sumatran tiger is a species of tiger found only in Indonesia on the island of Sumatra. Listed as critically endangered, Sumatran tigers are the only surviving Indonesian tiger species. The scientific name for the Sumatran tiger is Panthera tigris sumatrae.

The smallest existing tiger species, the Sumatran tiger reaches a maximum length of 8 feet (2.4 m). Females usually are smaller than males, measuring only about 7 feet (2.2 m). Males weigh as much as 265 pounds (120 kg), whereas females typically weigh less than 200 pounds (90 kg). Sumatran tigers have thinner stripes than other tiger species, and the fur on their necks and faces is thicker. Though they can live as long as 20 years in captivity, these tigers usually live less than 15 years in the wild.

Sumatran tigers are the smallest of the living tiger subspecies.
Sumatran tigers are the smallest of the living tiger subspecies.

Other than jaguars, tigers are the only species of cats that enjoy water. The Sumatran tiger has webbed toes — which are apparent only when the toes are spread — to aid it in swimming. Its preferred hunting method is to drive game into water and overtake the animal while swimming.

Sumatran tigers are opportunistic eaters. They will hunt birds, small game, fish and even primates. Their preferred food source, however, is hoofed animals such as deer and wild boar. These are particular favorites, in part, because they are slow swimmers. When a Sumatran tiger hunts without a water source nearby, it will stalk its prey and spring from behind to attack.

A Sumatran tiger is a species of tiger found only in Indonesia on the island of Sumatra.
A Sumatran tiger is a species of tiger found only in Indonesia on the island of Sumatra.

The Sumatran tiger's total population is split into many smaller groups throughout Sumatra. The tigers are found in forested regions at many altitudes, from lowlands to mountains. Although a single male's hunting territory might overlap with females' territories, tigers of the same gender do not have overlapping territories. Beginning at dusk, a tiger can range as far as 20 miles (32.2 km) in a single hunting trip.

Indonesia was once home to three distinct species of tiger: the Javan, the Bali and the Sumatran. Habitat destruction and excessive poaching, however, drove both the Javan and Bali tigers into extinction and left the Sumatran tiger with a population of less than 500. Zoos, universities and wildlife foundations, mostly working with the Indonesian government, have scrambled to save what is left of this tiger's population. As of 2011, in addition to two game reserves, five national parks have been established in hopes of saving the Sumatran tiger. Even with these protections, however, poaching still occurs, and about one-fifth of this species' population lives outside of protected areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Sumatran Tiger?

The Sumatran tiger is a rare and critically endangered subspecies of tiger native to the Indonesian island of Sumatra. It is distinguished by its smaller size, darker fur, and more pronounced stripes compared to other tiger subspecies. According to the World Wildlife Fund, there are fewer than 400 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, making conservation efforts vital for their survival.

How does the Sumatran Tiger differ from other tiger subspecies?

Sumatran tigers are the smallest of all tiger subspecies, adapted to navigating the dense, tropical forests of Sumatra. Their fur is a darker orange with thicker stripes, which provides better camouflage in their habitat. They also have a more bearded and maned appearance, with a dense hair covering on their neck and head, setting them apart from their larger relatives.

What are the main threats to the Sumatran Tiger's survival?

The primary threats to the Sumatran tiger include habitat loss due to deforestation for palm oil plantations and agriculture, poaching for their skin and body parts, and human-tiger conflict. These factors have led to a fragmented population, which increases the risk of inbreeding and reduces genetic diversity, further endangering the species.

What is being done to conserve Sumatran Tigers?

Conservation efforts for Sumatran tigers involve anti-poaching patrols, habitat protection, and restoration initiatives. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund and the Indonesian government are working to expand protected areas and create wildlife corridors. Additionally, there are breeding programs in place to help maintain genetic diversity and increase population numbers.

Where can Sumatran Tigers be found in the wild?

Sumatran tigers are found exclusively on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, primarily in lowland and hill forests. Their range once covered the entire island, but now they are mostly confined to national parks and protected areas such as Gunung Leuser National Park, Kerinci Seblat National Park, and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park.

How can individuals contribute to the conservation of Sumatran Tigers?

Individuals can contribute to the conservation of Sumatran tigers by supporting reputable wildlife conservation organizations through donations or by adopting a tiger. Raising awareness about the tiger's plight, advocating for sustainable palm oil production, and avoiding products linked to habitat destruction can also make a significant impact. Responsible eco-tourism can provide economic incentives for local communities to protect tigers and their habitat.

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    • Sumatran tigers are the smallest of the living tiger subspecies.
      By: hitdelight
      Sumatran tigers are the smallest of the living tiger subspecies.
    • A Sumatran tiger is a species of tiger found only in Indonesia on the island of Sumatra.
      By: bogdanserban
      A Sumatran tiger is a species of tiger found only in Indonesia on the island of Sumatra.