The Tiger (Panthera Tigris, Linnaeus) is the National Animal of India
The national animal of India is the magnificent creature called The Bengal Tiger. The scientific name of the Bengal Tiger is "Tiger Panthera tigris". This tiger is a rich-coloured well-striped animal with a short coat. The combination of grace, strength, agility and enormous power has earned the tiger great respect and high esteem. It is found throughout the country except the north-western region, and also in the neighbouring countries such as Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. The tiger occupies a variety of habitats from dry open jungles, humid ever-green forests to mangrove swamps.
Out of the eight races of the species known, the Indian race, the Royal Bengal Tiger is found throughout the country (except the north-western region) and also in the neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. Tigers are now getting extinct. The Government of India, under its "Project Tiger" programme, started a massive effort to preserve the tiger population in 1973. Today, the tiger advances as a symbol of India's conservation of itself and its wildlife heritage. Since the launch of "Project Tiger", the tiger population has shown a gradual increase. So far, 23 tiger reserves have been established in the country under this project.
The tiger impersonates strength with agility, speed, shrewdness and intelligence. Till now, 23 tiger reserves have been established in the country. This carnivorous feline of Asia is large and mane less. Its yellow colored fur with black transverse stripes and white belly look quite magnificent. It has now become a symbol of the India's efforts of conserving its wildlife heritage. The rare white tigers are also found in India, especially in the Gir forests of Gujarat. Tigers of Sunderbans and the Himalayan regions are larger in size than those of Madhya Pradesh and South India and can also be seen thriving in the evergreen forests. Most tigers have a lifespan of 20 years and can lean an amphibious life. They are known to hunt almost all the animals of the jungles, even the mighty elephants.