Sumatran Tiger

Panthera tigris sumatrae

The Sumatran tiger, Panthera tigris sumatrae, is the only tiger still living on Indonesia's Sunda Islands and the smallest surviving tiger form. It has a deep orange coat, heavy black striping, a relatively ruffed face, and the power and agility needed for hunting in wet tropical forest, peat swamp, and rugged hills. Its prey includes deer, wild pigs, and other medium to large animals, though individual tigers may also take smaller prey where forests are fragmented.

No tiger is suitable for ordinary private ownership, and Sumatran tigers are managed mainly by accredited zoos, sanctuaries, and field conservation programs. The subspecies is critically endangered because forest conversion, poaching, and conflict with people have left small, separated populations. Zoo breeding is coordinated through studbooks to avoid inbreeding and to keep a genetically useful safety population. Daily care involves secure big-cat facilities, off-exhibit dens, carcass feeding or equivalent meat programs, enrichment that encourages stalking and scent investigation, and strict safety routines. In the field, practical work includes anti-poaching patrols, corridor protection, and support for communities living near tiger habitat.