Do Tigers Have Striped Skin?

Yes, tiger skin is striped just like its fur. If the fur were shaved off a tiger, the skin underneath would have exactly the same markings that the fur had. The stripes serve to help conceal the tiger when its hunting or evading other prey.

More Tony the Tiger Facts:

• Each tiger typically has more than 100 stripes on its body, and their stripes are unique to each large cat — much like a fingerprint for humans.


• Of all the giant wild kitties, tigers are the heaviest. The Siberians pack the most heft at an average of 674 pounds (306 kilograms).


• There were nine species of tiger, but only six now remain — and those are all considered endangered. In fact, there are less 1,000 cats left in most of the six species.
• When a tiger roars, it can be heard for more than a mile (about 1.6 km).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do tigers have striped skin as well as striped fur?

Yes, tigers do have striped skin. The pigmentation pattern on a tiger's fur is actually mirrored on their skin. If you were to shave a tiger, you would still see the distinct striped pattern, which is unique to each individual, much like a human fingerprint.

What purpose do the stripes serve for tigers in the wild?

Tiger stripes act as camouflage, blending with the forest's dappled light and vegetation. This adaptation is crucial for stalking and ambushing prey. According to research, the effectiveness of their stripes in concealing their presence from prey is a key factor in their hunting success.

Are the stripes on all tigers the same?

No, each tiger has a unique pattern of stripes, which can be used to identify individuals, much like human fingerprints. This variation is not only in the pattern but also in the width and spacing of the stripes, which can be influenced by the tiger's subspecies and habitat.

Can the color of a tiger's stripes vary?

While the most common coloration is black or dark brown stripes on an orange background, some tigers, like the white tiger, have stripes that appear more dark gray or chocolate-colored. The stripe coloration is a result of genetic variation and can slightly differ between individuals and subspecies.

How do the stripes develop on a tiger's skin and fur?

The stripes on a tiger's skin and fur are determined by genetics, and they develop in the embryo. The specific genes involved control the distribution of melanin, the pigment responsible for the dark color of the stripes, and these patterns are visible from the time they are cubs.

Do the stripes on a tiger change as it grows older?

While the pattern of a tiger's stripes remains consistent throughout its life, the contrast can become more pronounced as the tiger matures. The fur may also change slightly in coloration, becoming darker or lighter with age, which can affect the appearance of the stripes.