Golden Tigers, also known as Golden Tabby Tigers or Strawberry Tigers, is a rare and captivating sight. Their unique coloration from a recessive gene sets them apart from their more commonly recognized relatives.
In this article, we will explore the exciting world of these fantastic creatures along with their traits, habitat, size, diet, and population status.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Golden Tiger, Golden Tabby Tiger, Strawberry Tiger |
| Color Variation | Blonde or pale-golden color and red-brown stripes |
| Habitat | Mainly in Captivity, Rarely in wild |
| Size | Males: 270 to 310 cm (110 to 120 in) Females: 240 to 265 cm (94 to 104 in) |
| Weight | Males: 488 lb (221.2 kg) Females: 308 lb (139.7 kg) |
| Diet | large mammals like deer and wild boar |
| Population | Fewer than 30, many more gene carriers |
Genetics
The Golden Tiger’s distinct coloration results from a recessive gene that causes a variation in its coat color. This gene results in blonde or pale-golden color and red-brown stripes, a color form called wideband.
This gene affects the production of black during the hair growth cycle, resulting in these unique colors. Unlike the typical orange-with-black-stripes coloration seen in most tigers, the Golden Tiger’s coloration is a rare occurrence, making them a fantastic spectacle in the world of wildlife.
Habitat
Currently, Golden Tigers are mainly found in captivity. The recessive gene that causes their unique coloration is currently only present in captive tigers. Even though this may reduce their exposure to natural habitats, it offers a rare chance for scientists and environmentalists to study these beautiful animals up close.
However, there have been rare sightings of Golden Tigers in the wild. One such sighting occurred in Kaziranga National Park in India.
This Golden Bengal Tiger fondly referred to as ‘Goldie’ by wildlife photographer Mayuresh Hendre, is the only one recorded in the wild in the 21st Century.
The presence of a Golden Tiger in the wild is an extraordinary occurrence and has raised concerns about inbreeding due to habitat destruction and loss of connectivity.
Size and Weight
The average length of a male Golden Tiger, including the tail, ranges from 270 to 310 cm (110 to 120 in), whereas the average length of a female is 240 to 265 cm (94 to 104 in). The tail’s length ranges from 85 to 110 cm (33 to 43 in).
Tigers usually are 90 to 110 cm (35 to 43 in) tall at the shoulders.
Male Golden Tigers often weigh around 488 lb (221.2 kg), and females typically weigh 308 lb (139.7 kg).
Diet
Like all tigers, Golden Tigers are carnivorous. They are apex predators, meaning they sit at the top of the food chain.
Their diet primarily consists of large mammals, including deer, wild boar and other smaller animals in wild. In zoos, the diet of tigers is meticulously planned to ensure they receive all the nutrients they need.
Population
This amazing creature are extremely rare. It is believed that currently there are less than 30 Golden Tigers in the world, but many more carriers of the gene. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these magnificent creatures and to learn more about their genetics.
Defects
Apart from the general threats in wild that all tigers face, such as habitat loss and poaching, Golden Tigers also face the risk of health issues due to inbreeding in captivity.
Genetic disorders, reduced life span, and other health complications can arise if breeding is not managed carefully.
Interesting Facts
- Unique Coloration: The Golden Tiger, also known as the Golden Tabby Tiger or Strawberry Tiger, has a distinctive coat coloration resulting from a recessive gene. This gives them a pale golden or blonde hue with light reddish-brown or caramel-colored stripes.
- Not Albinos: Golden Tigers are not albinos. Their unique coloration is due to a specific genetic mutation and not a lack of pigmentation.
- Rare in the Wild: While most Golden Tigers are found in captivity due to controlled breeding, there have been very few confirmed sightings of them in the wild. One such sighting was in Kaziranga National Park, India.
- Breeding Concerns: The breeding of Golden Tigers in captivity has raised concerns about inbreeding, which can lead to health issues and reduced genetic diversity.
Conclusion
Golden Tigers symbolize both the diversity in the animal realm and the glories of nature. Researchers, conservationists, and wildlife enthusiasts are all fascinated by them due to their distinctive color and rarity.
As we learn about these creatures, we will better recognize their unique qualities and act to protect and care for them.
Golden Tiger FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is a Golden Tiger?
A Golden Tiger, also known as a Golden Tabby Tiger or Strawberry Tiger, is a tiger with an extremely rare color variation caused by a recessive gene. This color variation results in blonde or pale-golden color and red-brown stripes.
Where can Golden Tigers be found?
Golden Tigers are extremely rare in the wild, with most of them being found in captivity.
What is the size and weight of a Golden Tiger?
Male Golden Tigers can measure between 270 to 310 cm (110 to 120 in) in length, while females measure between 240 to 265 cm (94 to 104 in). Male Golden Tigers weigh around 488 lb (221.2 kg), and females weigh about 308 lb (139.7 kg).
What is the diet of a Golden Tiger?
Golden Tigers are carnivorous, and their diet primarily consists of large mammals like deer and wild boar.
How many Golden Tigers are there?
The exact number of Golden Tigers is still being determined, but it’s estimated that there are fewer than 30, with many more tigers carrying the gene for this color variation.
Is a Golden Tiger an albino?
No, Golden Tigers are not albinos. Their unique coloration is due to a recessive gene that affects their fur color, not a lack of pigmentation that characterizes albinism. Their fur is blonde or pale golden with red-brown stripes, not white, as seen in albino animals.
Can I pet a Golden Tiger?
No, keeping a Golden Tiger or any big cat species as a pet is not advisable or legal. These are wild animals with specific needs that can’t be met in a domestic environment. They can also be dangerous due to their size, strength, and instincts.
How rare is the golden tiger?
Golden tigers are incredibly rare, with fewer than 30 known to exist, even in captivity. They carry a gene known as the ‘wideband‘ gene. Both parents must have this gene and the white gene to produce a golden tiger. Golden tigers have a softer coat than normal tigers, though they generally do not live as long.
