Tigers are among the world’s favourite big cats, not only because of their beautiful striped coats, but also because of their elusive nature. These solitary animals have large territories, but keep mainly to areas with plenty of trees and plants that they can use for camouflage. Their extensive hunting grounds enable them to find enough prey to live - although loss of habitat and conflict with human populations mean that tigers are increasingly losing areas of their territories, leaving them fighting for survival.

Tigers employ several tactics when it comes to hunting - let’s take a look at some of the ways in which they catch their prey.

Stalking

Tigers typically hunt by themselves, rarely collaborating with other individuals to secure a meal. They hunt at night, using sight and sound rather than smell to stalk their prey. They approach from behind, moving slowly and quietly among the trees, mangroves or other plants in their territories. They might stalk prey for up to 30 minutes before attacking. Tigers’ stripes help them to blend in with their surroundings, and because their prey cannot distinguish between red and green, their orange fur doesn’t give them away.

Ambush

Tigers will sometimes lie in wait for prey to pass by, hiding until the opportune moment before pouncing. This strategy requires a lot of patience and perfect timing if the tiger is to be successful.

Swimming

Tigers are strong swimmers and have been known to hunt prey in water. They may lie in wait by a river or lake, then chase prey into the water. Since they can swim at speeds of up to 6km/h (4mph), this often gives them the advantage over their quarry. 

Pursuit

Less commonly, tigers will chase prey over short distances. This strategy requires a burst of speed and they are most likely to use it if they are hunting an animal that is already injured or weak. If they aren’t successful within 150-200m, they will typically abandon the pursuit.

Attacking

When tigers are ready to pounce, they do so with impressive power. They use their weight and strength to knock their prey off balance, then bite the neck. Tigers usually bite large animals in the throat, while smaller animals are bitten on the back of the neck. They hold onto the prey with their huge front paws and keep their jaws locked until the prey is dead.

If the prey is large enough to provide more than one meal, a tiger might cover it with soil and leaves, then return to it later.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Unlike real tigers, which eat deer, sambar and wild boar, the tiger in Judith Kerr’s classic story prefers tea, cake and sandwiches. Touring the UK from October 2024, The Tiger Who Came to Tea is an Olivier Award nominated theatre family show that brings the magic of the picture book to life. With sing-along songs, dancing and magic, it’s theatre for preschoolers at its best, appealing to kids aged three and up. If you’re looking for family fun things to do this autumn, don’t miss out - book your tickets today