1. Forests:
- Tigers primarily inhabit dense forests with sufficient cover and water sources.
- They prefer habitats with tall grasses, dense vegetation, and rocky terrain for hunting and camouflage.
- Forest types may include tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, mangrove forests, and coniferous forests.
2. Grasslands:
- Tigers can also be found in tall grasslands, such as the tall-grass ecosystems of India and Nepal.
- Grasslands provide cover and support populations of prey species like deer and wild pigs.
3. Wetlands and Riparian Zones:
- Tigers are often found near rivers, streams, and wetlands, as they rely on water for drinking and regulating body temperature.
- Wetlands also support a rich diversity of prey species.
4. Mountainous Regions:
- Some tiger subspecies, such as the Siberian tiger, inhabit mountainous regions with temperate forests, rocky terrain, and snow during winter.
5. Cover:
- Tigers require dense cover for resting, stalking prey, and raising their young.
- They utilize dense vegetation, caves, fallen logs, and rocky crevices for shelter.
6. Prey Availability:
- Tigers primarily prey on large herbivores like deer, wild boar, and antelope.
- Habitats that sustain sufficient populations of prey species are essential for tiger survival.
7. Water Sources:
- Tigers have high water requirements and rely on permanent water sources for drinking and cooling off, especially in hot climates.
8. Climate:
- Different tiger subspecies are adapted to various climatic conditions, including tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates.
9. Protected Areas:
- Many tiger populations are found in protected areas, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries, where their habitat is conserved and hunting is prohibited.
It's important to note that tiger habitats may vary between different subspecies and geographical regions, but the common thread is the presence of suitable cover, prey availability, water sources, and protection from human disturbances. Conservation efforts focus on preserving these habitats to ensure the survival and recovery of tiger populations.