The behaviour, habitat and threats to the Indian Tiger are all interdependent. Unlike the lion, these are not pack animals. Young tigers, particularly males stake out their territory early; for many tigers to survive within a reserve large areas of forest land is needed. The habitatl can vary from the mangroves of the Sunderbans,to the less green areas of the Western Ghats and the jungles of the south. Females bear and care for the young alone, feeding them even after they are weaned, and protecting them from others. The gestation period is around 100 days and the litter of 2 to 4 cubs stays close to the mother for 2 to 3 years, learning hunting skills from her. Tigers rely on their good hearing and forest cover to stalk their prey rather then on speed or stamina. They also need sufficient prey to feed on and water bodies in their territory. Tigers are good swimmers and love being in the water.The burgeoning human population in India and their spillover into buffer zones, lead to conflicts with tigers. Tigers which venture out into human settlements may feed on livestock, and may be poisoned by the local population. Habitat loss due to developmant projects and mining have alarmed conservaionists. The fall in tiger numbers in turn leads to inbreeding and genetic defects.
Poaching is an increasingly grave threat.Tiger parts like skin, and penises are sold for tens of thousands of dollars, though this trade is banned. Bones are used in traditional Chinese medicines.
Natural disasters, like the recent Cyclone Aila have killed several tigers in the ravaged low lying areas of the sunderbans.
