The Bengal tiger is one of the strongest animals in the world and the largest cat. Its massive body is orange or light brown above with black stripes throughout. Each tiger has a different pattern of stripes. Tigers have white underparts. Male tigers can weigh more 500 pounds, although the heaviest tiger ever recorded was more than 850 pounds! Females are smaller and rarely surpass 350 pounds. Bengal tigers have huge canine teeth that can measure up to four inches long.

Bengal tigers are endangered species. Population growth in India and southeast Asia has resulted in the destruction of their habitat. In addition, illegal hunting (called poaching) has reduced tiger numbers. Those who poach tigers can become rich by selling their parts to people in China. Tiger parts are used to make traditional Chinese medicines. Today, there are only about 2,000 Bengal tigers thought to be left in the wild.

Which of the following would be a good way to tell one tiger from another?
1. By its weight
2. By its age
3. By its pattern of stripes
4. By its color
Which of the following would be unlikely?
1. A male tiger that weighed 500 pounds
2. A tiger with canines that measured three inches long
3. A female tiger that weighed 375 pounds
4. A tiger that has a white belly
Which of the following are reasons why tigers are declining? Circle all that apply.
1. Habitat Destruction
2. Chinese Medicine
3. Poaching
4. Population Growth
Which of the following is NOT answered?
1. How do males and females differ?
2. What can people do to help save tigers?
3. How do poachers make money from tigers?
4. How many tigers are left in the wild?