Key Takeaways
| Bengal Tiger | Siberian Tiger | |
| Scientific Name | Panthera Tigris Tigris | Panthera Tigris Altaica |
| Habitat | India, Pakistan, southern Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and southwestern China. | Russia, some parts of China and northern Korea. |
| Size | 6-10 feet (1.8-3m) long; 200-600 pounds (90-272 kg) | 7-12 feet (2.1-3.7m) long; 300-600 pounds (136-272m) |
| Appearance | Thin coat with black stripes | Thick fur coat with fat stores |
Introduction
Tigers are among the most fascinating creatures on Earth. Two of the most well-known subspecies are the Bengal Tiger and the Siberian Tiger. At first glance, they may seem very similar, but upon closer inspection, you’ll find that they have many unique characteristics.
Physical Differences
Size and Weight
One of the most noticeable differences between the Bengal tiger vs Siberian tiger is their size and weight.
- Bengal Tigers typically measure between 6 to 10 feet (1.8-3m) in length and weigh between 200 to 600 pounds (90-272 kg)
- Siberian Tigers, on the other hand, grow anywhere from 7 to 12 feet (2.1-3.7m) in length and weigh between 300 to 600 pounds (136-272m)
Appearance
Bengal tiger vs Siberian tiger in their appearances:
- Bengal Tigers have a thinner coat, with stripes ranging from dark brown to black.
- Siberian Tigers have a thicker fur coat with fat stores, which helps them survive in the colder climates.
Habitat and distribution
Distribution
The distributions of these tigers are largely influenced by their geographical locations.
- Bengal Tigers are commonly found throughout India, Pakistan, southern Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and southwestern China.
- Siberian Tigers prefer the cold and snowy climates of Russia, some parts of China and northern Korea.
Habitat
The lifestyle and habits of these tigers also vary based on their habitats:
- Bengal Tigers live in hot desert areas and grasslands where the climate is humid and cool.
- Siberian Tigers are adapted to live in extreme cold conditions, inhabiting snowy places.
Dietary Habits
Bengal Tiger Diet
The Bengal Tiger is a carnivorous animal that eats almost any animal it can catch. Here’s a table that shows the animals it likes to eat:
| Size of Animal | Examples |
| Large | Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barasingha, Water Buffalo, Nilgai, Serow, Takin, Wild Boar, Indian Hog Deer, Indian Muntjac, Northern Plains Gray Langur |
| Small | Porcupine, Hare, Peafowl |
Even though the Bengal Tiger can eat many different animals, the smaller ones like porcupines, hares, and peafowls are only a small part of its diet.
Siberian Tiger Diet
Just like the Bengal Tiger, the Siberian Tiger is also a carnivore. It eats a variety of animals. Here’s a table that shows what the Siberian Tiger likes to eat:
| Size of Animal | Examples |
| Large | Siberian Musk Deer, Long-tailed Goral, Moose, Siberian Roe Deer, Sika Deer, Wild Boar, Asiatic Black Bears, Brown Bears |
| Small | Hares, Rabbits, Pikas, Salmon |
Conclusion
While both the Bengal and Siberian tigers belong to the same species, Panthera Thigris, they exhibit significant differences in their size, appearance, habitat, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences can help us appreciate the diversity and complexity of these magnificent creatures.
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