With their striking stripes and secretive nature, tigers capture the human imagination like few other animals. Rarely seen in the wild and facing extinction, they hold a mystery that enchants adults and children alike. Indeed, many story books, films and even family theatre shows feature tigers as exotic and exciting characters. Here, we explore ten facts about one particular subspecies - the Bengal tiger.

1. Bengal tiger populations are increasing

The most exciting fact about Bengal tigers is that, according to the Zoological Society of London, their population is increasing. While they are still considered endangered, a tiger census conducted in 2023 revealed that there are now over 3,100 individuals living in India. That’s around twice as many as in 2003.

2. Bengal tigers are the world’s second largest tiger

The Bengal tiger subspecies is the world’s second largest, behind the Amur or Siberian tiger. Males can grow to three metres long, with females only slightly shorter at 2.7 metres. Males are significantly heavier, however, weighing up to 225kg compared to females, which reach a maximum of 135kg.

3. Bengal tigers have a big appetite

Strategic and solitary hunters, Bengal tigers can eat as much as 40kg of meat in one mealtime - although this doesn’t happen often. They prey on a variety of animals such as pigs, deer, and even buffalo.

4. Bengal tigers are a national emblem

The Bengal tiger is the national animal of both India and Bangladesh, and is even featured on Bangladeshi banknotes.

5. Bengal tigers have the biggest teeth

Bengal tigers have the largest canine teeth of any living cat - around 10cm in length. They also have retractable claws, which enable them to climb trees.

6. Bengal tigers don’t only live in India

While India has the largest population of Bengal tigers, there are an estimated 114 individuals living in the Sundarbans, a region of mangrove forests in Bangladesh. There are also small numbers living in lowland forests in Nepal, and in the subtropical Himalayan foothills of Bhutan.

7. Cubs stay with mum for several years

A Bengal tiger is pregnant for three to four months, and usually gives birth to between two and four cubs. She begins to teach her cubs hunting skills when they are around six months old. They stay with her for two to three years before leaving to find their own territories.

8. Bengal tiger stripes are unique

Just like other subspecies of tiger, each individual Bengal tiger has a unique pattern of stripes, which enables them to be identified by other individuals as well as conservationists. 

9. Bengal tigers are immensely powerful

While it’s clear that Bengal tigers are strong, they may be even more powerful than you think. They’re capable of hauling prey that’s heavier than they are for up to a mile before eating it.

10. White tigers are Bengals

White tigers may seem like a separate species, but in fact they are Bengal tigers with a genetic mutation that turns their fur white and their eyes blue.

If you love tigers and are looking for family shows at the theatre, don’t miss The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Currently touring the UK, the show brings Jusith Kerr’s popular children’s book to life with songs, dancing and clumsy chaos. Book your family theatre tickets today at a venue near you.