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At Bandhavgarh, tiger achieves the highest
known density in India. They are widespread, and are seen
throughout the Park.
Tigers are basically solitary animals, coming
together only briefly at the kill or when mating. Studies
at nearby Kanha have shown that in areas of high tiger density
male tigers hold well-defined territories which they defend
against other animals, but within which several females
may hold loosely defined territories. The breeding rate
in these areas is high. In areas of lower tiger-density,
females become less common and breeding is rare, whilst
most of the tigers are old males who hold at most loosely-defined
territories.
Hunting is usually carried out at night,
normally alone (though a mother may kill with cubs helping
or looking on). The kill is usually made by first pulling
down the hindquarters of the
prey and then killing with a bite to the head or neck. The
prey is usually eaten completely - the tiger staying nearby,
chasing off scavengers (mainly white backed vultures and
jungle crows) and often hiding the carrion or covering it
with branches.
The tiger is rarely heard - the most common
vocalization is the 'pook', a loud clear call similar to
the alarm call of the Sambar.
Food
Most commonly chital, also sambar, barking deer, wild pig,
gaur, langur - to a lesser extent porcupines and other small
mammals. Birds, eggs, frogs, are eaten when very young.
Breeding
Mating generally after the rains, most young born February-May.
Litter usually 2-4, up to 6. Cubs accompany mother for about
6 months, leaving her after about 2 years.
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