Big cat populations throughout the world are in decline, mostly due to human threats. The largest population of Bengal tigers lives in the Sundarbans National Park and Tiger Reserve.

Despite its status as an icon of India, Bengal tigers are endangered. Siberian tigers live primarily in eastern Russia’s boreal forests and although the Siberian tiger population appears to be stable, there are only 400-500 left in the wild.

As human populations increase and habitat is destroyed, competition between humans and tigers for food and space increases.

Use this activity to help students compare and contrast geographic themes related to Bengal and Siberian tiger populations.

Featured photograph by: Jose Vasquez, MyShot