The Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) is a critically endangered subspecies of tiger native to the Indonesian island of Sumatra. It is the smallest of all tiger subspecies, with males typically weighing between 100-140 kg (220-310 lbs) and females weighing between 75-110 kg (165-243 lbs). This smaller size is an adaptation to the dense forests and rugged terrain of their island habitat.
Conservation Status:
The Sumatran tiger is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with an estimated 400-600 individuals left in the wild. The population is declining due to habitat loss from deforestation, agricultural expansion, and illegal logging. Additionally, poaching for the illegal wildlife trade remains a significant threat, with tigers targeted for their skin, bones, and other body parts used in traditional medicines. Prey depletion due to hunting is also a ubiquitous threat. Finally, human-tiger conflicts cause the killing of tigers every year.