EXTERNAL CHARACTERS OF THE TIGER. 



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Tiger in good health is exceedingly beautiful. The ground is of a rufous or tawny-yellow, shaded 

 into white on the ventral surface. This is varied with vertical black stripes, or elongated ovals or 

 brindlings. On the face and on the back of the ears the white markings are peculiarly well denned, 

 and present an appearance as remarkable as beautiful. The depth of shade of the ground colour, 

 and the intensity of the black markings, vary according to the age and condition of the animal 

 In old Tigers the ground becomes more tawny, of a lighter shade, and the black markings better 

 denned. The young are more dusky in the ground colouring than the middle-aged or old 



DYING MAX-EATEK. 



Tigers. The depth of colour is also affected by locality and climate. Those found in forests are 

 often of a deeper shade than Tigers found in more open localities. It is said that in more northern 

 latitudes they are of a lighter colour, almost white. The circular white patches on the back of the 

 ears, and the white and black about the face, are very conspicuous in the Tiger, rushing through the 

 grass or jungle when disturbed. Brilliant as is the general colour, it is remarkable how well it 

 harmonises with the grass or bush among which he prowls, and for which, indeed, until his charge, and 

 the short deep growls or barkings which accompany it, reveal his presence, he may be mistaken. The 

 Tigress differs from the Tiger ; the head, as well as the whole body, is smaller and narrower. The neck 

 is lighter, and is devoid of any crest, which, though very much smaller than the voluminous mane of 

 the Lion, undoubtedly exists in large and old males. The Tigress is lither, more active, and when 

 accompanied by her offspring, far more savage and bloodthirsty than the male ; she will then attack, 

 even when unprovoked ; and in defence of her young, of which she is proverbially fond, is as courageous 

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