Sumatran
tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) is a subspecies of tiger found on the
Indonesian island of Sumatra. Recent genetic testing has revealed the
presence of unique genetic markers, which isolate Sumatran tigers from
all mainland subspecies. About 400-500 wild Sumatran tigers were believed to exist in 1998, but their numbers have continued to decline.
The Sumatran Tiger is the smallest of all surviving tiger subspecies.
Male Sumatran tigers average 204 cm (6 feet, 8 inches) in length from
head to tail and weigh about 136 kg (300 lb). Females average 198 cm (6
feet, 6 inches) in length and weigh about 91 kg (200 lb).Its stripes are
narrower than other subspecies of tigers' stripes, and it has a more
bearded and maned appearance, especially the males. Its small size makes
it easier to move through dense rain forests. It has webbing between
its toes that, when spread, makes Sumatran tigers very fast swimmers. It
has been known to drive hoofed prey into the water, especially if the
prey animal is a slow swimmer.