Tigers are magnificent mammals that belong to the big cat family, and are native to Asia, particularly in Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia. They are highly evolved predators and play a crucial role in maintaining the natural ecology.

Adult tigers can grow up to 2-2.5 meters in length, have a tail length of 1 meter and weigh between 90-220 kilograms. Their distinctive feature is their black vertical stripes on their orange-red or white fur, with their lower half being lighter in color.

Tigers do not tolerate hot weather due to their lack of sweat glands and often seek shade in trees during summer. Despite their aversion to hot temperatures, tigers are excellent swimmers and enjoy spending time in ponds, particularly those in hotter regions.

However, their tree-climbing skills are not as developed as their swimming abilities, likely due to their size and weight.

Tigers possess strong teeth and retractable claws, which are their primary weapons during hunting. They are fast, decisive and ferocious predators, utilizing the least amount of energy to capture their prey.

Due to their thick foot pads, tigers can move quietly and remain alert and concealed. They have no natural predators in Asia, and their hind feet can accurately step on the front footprints when walking on snow.

The tiger's fur has distinctive stripes that go deep into its skin and are unique to each individual, similar to human fingerprints. Their tongues are covered with sharp barbs made of keratin, the same material found in human nails.

Their tongues are mainly used for grooming and removing residual meat from their bones and their cubs, as well as keeping their hair tidy.

Despite being known as the "king of beasts," tigers are facing the threat of extinction, with their numbers declining by over 95 percent since the early 20th century.

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species lists tigers as an endangered species. According to the World Wildlife Fund, there are approximately 3,900 wild tigers globally, with most residing in India.

One of the most significant threats to tigers is habitat loss, as human activity such as deforestation and agriculture encroach on their natural habitats. This loss of habitat leads to a decline in prey availability, which further exacerbates the tigers' vulnerability.

Additionally, tigers are often poached for their fur, bones, and other body parts, which are in high demand for traditional medicine and as luxury items.

Despite conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and anti-poaching measures, the illegal trade in tiger parts persists. It is crucial to address these issues and take action to ensure the survival of these magnificent animals.

Tigers are majestic animals that are crucial to maintaining the natural ecology. Their unique physical attributes and hunting abilities are a marvel to observe.

However, their dwindling numbers due to habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trade have raised concerns about their survival. Conservation efforts must be made to protect these magnificent creatures and ensure their continued existence.