Amur - or Siberian - tigers are one of the rarer tiger subspecies, roaming the far eastern regions of Russian and northeast China. They are the world’s largest big cat, reaching up to four metres in length and weighing in at up to 130kg (females) and 190kg (males). Amur tigers are arguably one of the most beautiful yet fierce creatures on the planet. Here, we share some of the most interesting facts about them.

1. Amur tigers are coming back from the brink of extinction

In the 1940s, the Amur tiger was on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 50 individuals estimated to be in the wild. In 1947, Russia became the first country to ban tiger hunting, and since then the population has grown to an estimated 265-486. However, this majestic creature is still classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.

2. Amur tigers’ coats are thicker than that of other subspecies

The Amur tiger lives in a colder environment than other subspecies, where there is often snow on the ground and temperatures can fall to -30°C. The tigers have a thick coat and a thick mane around their necks to protect them from the cold, as well as extra fur on their paws to keep them warm as they pad through the snow.

3. Amur tigers’ coats change with the seasons

Due to the climate in which Amur tigers live, their coats change with the seasons. In winter it gets paler and the fur almost doubles in length, while in summer it gets thinner and darker to help the tigers hunt.

4. Amur tigers are solitary

Like most tiger subspecies, Amur tigers prefer their own company, only meeting to reproduce. A mother can have between two and six cubs at a time, but they reach full independence around two to three years old and leave their mum to find their own territories.

5. Amur tigers have excellent eyesight

The Amur tiger’s eyesight is comparable to that of humans during the day, but at night it is six times better. They have more cells called rods in their eyes, which detect light, as well as larger pupils than human eyes. This makes it easier to stalk and catch prey in the dark. 

6. Amur tigers are big eaters

Amur tigers only have a success rate of 38% - 54% when hunting, which means that they may go several days without eating. When they do eat they fill up, munching up to 18kg of food in one sitting. Their favourite food is deer and wild boar.

Join The Tiger Who Came to Tea on stage

If your family is wild about tigers, don’t miss The Tiger Who Came to Tea live on stage. This award-nominated children’s play is based on the bestselling book by Judith Kerr and is one of the best children’s shows touring the UK. It’s ideal for kids aged three and up, with plenty of interactive moments and a run time of just 55 minutes. Discover this delightful family show at a theatre near you and book today.