The Study on the Behavior of Female White Tigers in Different Captive Conditions at Chiang Mai Night Safari

Abstract

White tiger is a tiger characterized by its white fur, which is caused by a pigmentation disorder, often found in Bengal tigers with gene abnormalities. White tiger is considered as a vulnerable (IUCN) animal species. Therefore, it is important for conservation. Thus, the objective of this study was to observe the behavior patterns of female white tiger in different captive conditions. Seven female white tigers were used in this study. Three captive conditions were studied: individual captive, dividual captive and captive with other tiger species. The tiger behavior was observed in five groups including daily routine, movement, relaxation, self-grooming and affiliative behaviors. Behavioral observations were performed at 7 hours/day for 90 days. The results showed that the individual captive tigers expressed self-grooming and relaxation higher than dividual captive tigers and white tiger captive with other tigers (P<0.001). Dividual captive showed daily routine and movement higher than individual captive and white tiger captive with the other tiger (P<0.001). White tiger captive tigers with other tiger species showed affiliative behaviors higher than individual captive and dividual captive tigers (P<0.001). This study was able to be used as a guideline for further enhancing behavior and designing display areas that may be suitable for white tigers.