Tigers

Tigers are species of big cats that live in the forests of India, Siberia and

Southeast Asia. These cats are endangered and are very rare to find. It is

estimated that 400 tigers are killed every year. Tigers are the strongest cats

ever. These cats are 10 times stronger than a man. All five types of tigers

are covered in stripes and each animal's markings are unique just like

a human's fingerprint. If you ever saw a tiger, you

might say you found it on land but tigers spend

most of their time in water. They often lounge

in the water to cool down in the heat of the day.

Appearance

Tigers are very large. The biggest tiger is the Amur

tiger measuring 4 meters (13ft). Tigers claws are essential tools, used for climbing,

cutting, gripping and killing. All other cats can put away their claws when they are not using them. this helps to keep the claws in good condition. Bengal tigers give birth to white cubs and these are very rare. A few exist today.

Senses

Tigers have many senses that we don't know. Tigers have large funnel-shaped ears that draw sound into them. Cats can hear even the smallest of noises, which help them to detect essential prey. Cats have excellent eyesight, and can see up to six times better than a human in dim light. Tigers have a special organ in the roof of their mouths called the Jacobson's organ. This allows them to taste smells. When the cat curls back it's lip it can analyses scents that other cats have left behind. A large, rough tongue is used for grooming, licking meat from bones, and lapping up water. A sensitive nose helps cats to recognise their homes, mate, family and food. A cat's nose has about 19 million nerve endings in it.

By Osman, Ahmed and Mushtaba