Tigers are often thought to be mysterious creatures. For most of us, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see one in the wild, which means we have to rely on zoos or documentaries to learn about them. Of course, there are always family-friendly tiger plays to enjoy as well - such as The Tiger Who Came to Tea, which returns to the Theatre Royal Haymarket this summer - although these may not teach us about real life tigers!

Spring is an important season for tigers, and if you were to head to India for some wildlife spotting, this is the time of year you’re most likely to catch a glimpse of the elusive striped cat. Let’s discover what tigers are up to in spring.

Making the most of abundant food

In early spring, temperatures warm up, and the animals that tigers prey on begin flocking to water holes. This means it’s easier for the big cats to take their pick of food and achieve a successful hunt. Being strong swimmers they can even chase animals into the water to make a kill. Tigers usually hunt wild boar and deer, but have also been known to prey on buffalo, sloth bears and even crocodiles. 

Reproducing

While tigers can mate at any time of year, they most often do so during the cooler months of November to April. Spring is a time when you’re likely to hear male tigers roaring to attract a mate. It’s also the time of year when conflict occurs more often between males as they fight for dominance. Females choose a mate based on their size and strength, as well as the quality of his territory. 

A female tiger’s gestation lasts around 100 days, meaning that in springtime they are often either pregnant or caring for cubs. They head to a quiet spot to give birth, and spend the first few months nursing their babies until the little ones are ready to start learning to hunt. 

Cooling off

In the late spring, tiger territories in India become hotter and they can often be found taking a dip to cool off. Tigers lack sweat glands in many places on their bodies, meaning that submerging themselves in water is the best way for them to fend off the heat and escape flies. 

Patrolling and grooming

In spring you will also find tigers patrolling and marking their territory by scratching trees, leaving scent marks and vocalising. They will also spend time grooming themselves. This not only helps to keep their fur clean and spread oils over their bodies, it also helps them to heal themselves. Tiger saliva has natural antimicrobial components, which stop wounds becoming infected.  

Catch a tiger coming to tea 

If you’re looking for ‘children’s theatre near me’ this spring and summer, don’t miss The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Returning for its 11th West End summer season, it’s playing at the Theatre Royal Haymarket from 14 July to 7 September 2025. Book tickets to one of the UK’s best-loved family theatre shows today!