Tigers (Panthera tigris) are one of the biggest of the big cats, the largest weighing more than 272 kilograms (600 pounds). These solitary mammals can inspire as much fear as wonder.

Yet, these charismatic predators are endangered, with only 3,900 tigers estimated to remain in the wild. Much of their habitat has been lost to human encroachment. Now, they are found only in sparse parts of Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and South Asia. Consequently, many tigers are protected in reserves in those places and throughout the world.