THE TIGER. 41 
spread as that of the Lion, for it is never found in any portions of the New 
World, nor in Africa, and, except in certain districts, is but rarely seen even 
in the countries where it takes up its residence. Some portions of country 
there are, which are absolutely infested by this fierce animal, whose very 
appearance is sufficient to throw the natives into a state of abject terror. 
In its colour the Tiger presents a most beautiful arrangement of markings 
and contrast of tints. On a bright tawny yellow ground, sundry dark stripes 
are placed, arranged, as may be seen by the engraving, nearly at right angles 
with the body or limbs. Some of these stripes are double, but the greater 
number are single dark streaks. The under parts of the body, the chest, 
throat, and the long hair which tufts each side of the face, are almost white, 
and upon these parts the stripes become very obscure, fading gradually into 
the light tint of the fur. The tail is of a whiter hue than the upper portions of 
the body, and is decorated in like manner with dark rings. : 
So brilliantly adorned an animal would appear to be very conspicuous 
«mong even the trees and bushes, and to thrust itself boldly upon the view. But 
THE TIGER. —(7igris regalis.) 
there is no animal that can hide itself more thoroughly than the Tiger, or 
which can walk through the underwood with less betrayal of its presence. 
The vertical stripes of the body harmonize so well with the dry, dusky 
jungle grass among which this creature loves to dwell, that the grass and 
fur are hardly distinguishable from each other except by a quick and 
experienced eye. A Tiger may thus lie concealed so cleverly, that even when 
crouching among low and scanty vegetation it may be almost trodden on 
without being seen. . 
The Tiger is very clever in selecting spots from whence it can watch the 
approach of its intended prey, itself being crouched under the shade of foliage 
or behind the screen of some friendly rock. It is fond of lying in wait by 
the side of moderately frequented roads, more particularly choosing those 
