Statistics: Weight: 650-700 lbs; Body length: 9 feet.
Description: Largest of the tigers. The Amur has a broad, massive muzzle and large forequarters
compared to the other tigers. The winter coat is full and long (up to 2" long on back and 2.5" long on
belly) while summer coat is relatively short and smooth. The coloration is lighter than other tigers,
especially in the winter. Stripes are brownish, narrow and less numerous. Underparts are light in
color and backs of ears are black with central cream colored spots. Albinistic phases do occur.
Range/Habitat: Limited to mountains of North Korea, northern provinces of Manchuria and
extreme east of Siberia in Sikhote-Alin mountains north of Vladivostok (where two reserves have
been established). Perfers woodlands or overgrown rocky cliffs. Can be found at 4,000 feet in the
summer, but will be at lower elevations in the winter.
Adaptations: Longer fur to withstand cold temperatures of -30 degrees F. In the winter, attains a
thick insulating layer of fat on belly and flanks. Wanders great distances to find food. Coloration
provides good camouflage. Can eat the equivalent of one-fifth of their body weight. Likes water
and will swim. Both sexes spray urine to mark territory.
Courtship/Gestation/Birth: Amur tigers are seasonal breeders. After breeding, the male leaves
and teh female raises the resulting offspring on her own. Gestation lasts about 105 days after which
an average of 2-3 cubs are born. A cub measures about 12" and weights up to 42 oz. at birth. Eyes
open after one week and milk teeth erupt by the end of the second week. Stripes of cubs are lighter
in color than those of an adult. Cubs nurse up to 6 months and start eating meat by 8 weeks.
Offspring will remain with the mother up to 2 years. Full growth and sexual maturity is attained by
5 years. Lifespan in captivity is about 18 years, less in the wild.
Status: Endangered. It is unknown exactly how many tigers remain in the wild. There is a total ban
on hunting and partial ban on live specimens. Poaching still occurs for fur and tiger remains (Asian medicines).
Amur tigers in captivity are part of the tiger SSP (Species Survival Plan). Genetic monitoring is ongoing
to prevent inbreeding.
Special Notes: Fossil evidence indicates that tigers originally inhabited northern regions to the
edge of the Arctic. Populations later spread south to the tropical areas, becoming smaller in size.
The largest recorded Amur tiger was a male weighing 845 lbs.
