The Javan Tiger (Panthera tigris sondaica) is a tiger species native to the Indonesian island of
Java. The Javan tiger was a smaller subspecies compared to the others. It had long and thin stripes,
which
were slightly more numerous than those of the Sumatran tiger.
The Javan tiger was said to be strong
enough to break the legs of horses or water buffaloes with its
paws. They have been represented as a symbol of strength and power in traditional Javanese
culture.
Javan tigers were a lot like other tigers. They hunted animals like deer, buffalo, wild boars, and
occasionally peafowl. They preferred living away from human activity, and by themselves. They used to
inhabit the whole island but later moved more towards the forests. Very little is known about there
lifespan, as they were only studied in zoos up to the 1940s.
Dodos were hunted as an easy food source by sailers.
How did the Javan Tigers die out?
Increased population in Indonesia lead to the tiger's demise. Bounties were made for the species in the
early 1800s, as they were considered dangerous pests. Their habitat was taken to be turned into farmland for
growing rice. The massive increase in people on the island pushed the species deep into the
wilderness.
By 1960, the population had dwindled to under 15 known individuals. Conservation efforts were made but by
then it was too late. Sightings of scat and footprints happened up until the 1990s, and in 2008 the species
was declared extinct.
Animal Facts:
- Length: 98 in
- Weight: 220-310 lb
- Age: Unkown
- Territory: The island of Java
