Tiger Day!
Every year on 29th July, many animal charities and organisations get behind International Tiger Day to help raise awareness of the worrying decline in wild tigers, who are at risk of extinction and celebrate how vital Tiger conservation is.
There are almost 3,900 wild tigers worldwide – a number that’s growing, thanks to the work of tiger protectors and charities like WWF.
Of course, being in our name, it’s no secret that we love tigers – and our namesake friend features on several of our kids organic clothing designs. So, in the spirit of all things tiger, let’s find out some more about these big, beautiful cats – facts the kids will love!
1. Tigers can mate with other big cats
Ever heard of a Tigon? That’s what you get when a male tiger mates with a female lion. How about a liger? That’s the offspring of a male lion and a female tiger. Tigons are the largest cat species, and they can be found in countries including the USA, China, Russia and India.
2. Tigers have magic spit
Tigers’ saliva is antiseptic – perfect for licking any wounds to avoid infection. How clever!
3. Watch out… tigers are fast
While not the fastest big cat, you wouldn’t want to be in a race with a tiger – they can reach speeds at nearly 40 miles an hour!
4. Stripes aren’t just on tiger’s fur
Stripes go all the way from a tiger’s fur to their skin – if they had a bald spot, you’d still see their stripes. This is true with most cats – even our house cats.
5. Tiger stripes are unique
Just like our fingerprints are one of a kind, the stripey pattern on a tiger’s glorious silky coat is unique, and you won’t find another the same.
6. Tigers like to come out at night
Most tigers are nocturnal so, while we’re sleeping, tigers will be on patrol to avoid humans and hunt their prey.
7. Tigers love water
Tigers can swim for hours and love spending time in the water – not like the domestic cat! And as adults, it is said that they can swim for several kilometres and even have reported one to swim for 30 km in just a day.
8. India is home to most wild tigers
70% of total tigers can be found in India. Every four years, India counts the number of wild tigers, and, thankfully, it’s promising news. In 2006, there were 1,411, which went up to 2,226 in 2014. At the last count, in 2019, the number of tigers was 2,967.
