1. Ambush:
* Cover and concealment: Tigers use dense vegetation, tall grass, and the cover of darkness to their advantage, hiding near waterholes or common animal paths.
* Sudden attack: They launch surprise attacks from their concealed positions, catching their prey off guard.
* Powerful bite: Tigers have exceptionally strong jaws and sharp canines, delivering a lethal bite to the neck or throat.
2. Stalking:
* Silent movement: They rely on their padded paws and excellent camouflage to move silently through the undergrowth, avoiding detection.
* Observing prey: Tigers patiently stalk their prey, studying their movements and behavior.
* Closing in: They slowly and steadily close the distance, choosing the right moment to strike.
3. Pursuit:
* Speed and agility: Tigers are capable of bursts of speed, although not as fast as other big cats. They utilize their powerful legs to chase down prey.
* Stamina: They can pursue prey for long distances, wearing down their target until they have the opportunity for a final attack.
4. Water-Based Hunting:
* Strong swimmers: Sumatran tigers are skilled swimmers and can utilize water to their advantage, ambushing prey at waterholes or crossing rivers.
* Using cover: The murky waters of rivers and lakes provide excellent concealment, allowing tigers to approach prey undetected.
5. Prey Selection:
* Primary prey: Sumatran tigers primarily target wild pigs, deer, and large ungulates like tapirs and buffalo.
* Opportunistic hunting: They are also known to hunt smaller animals like monkeys, snakes, and fish.
* Size and vulnerability: Tigers typically target prey that is slightly smaller than themselves, but they can bring down animals much larger if the opportunity arises.
It's important to note: Sumatran tigers are highly intelligent and adaptable hunters, constantly learning and refining their skills. They are apex predators, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.