Sumatran Tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) is an endemic tiger species found only in Indonesia. It is one of the last six tiger subspecies still surviving in the world. Today, the Sumatran Tiger is listed as a critically endangered animal, facing a very high risk of extinction.
Sumatran Tiger habitats are spread across the island of Sumatra. This tiger lives in many types of forests, including lowland forests, peatlands, and mountainous rainforests. It prefers clean and open paths and usually avoids thick bushes unless it is chasing prey. Its relatively small body helps it move easily through dense jungle terrain.
Sumatra Tiger has a unique and impressive body structure. Compared to other tiger subspecies, it has a smaller body size. An adult male can reach an average length of about 250 centimeters from head to tail, weigh around 140 kilograms, and stand about 60 centimeters tall. Adult females are smaller, with an average length of 198 centimeters and a weight of about 91 kilograms.
Sumatra Tiger fur is darker than other tigers. Its color ranges from reddish yellow to deep orange, covered with vertical black stripes across the body. These black stripes are wider, closer together, and thinner than those of other tiger subspecies. On its face, two black lines run from the eyes down to the chin, bordered by white lines. Male Sumatran Tigers also have thicker beards and manes than other tigers.
Sumatra Tiger claws are extremely strong and are believed to be powerful enough to crush a bear’s skull. The tiger also has webbing between its toes, allowing it to swim fast. It often forces prey toward water, especially animals that cannot swim well.
Sumatra Tiger populations continue to decline due to severe habitat loss. Forest areas are being cleared for agriculture and commercial plantations. Illegal logging and road construction also damage its living space. Oil palm plantation expansion is the main cause of habitat loss, reducing forest areas by about 20 percent between 2000 and 2012. As a result, tigers are pushed closer to human settlements, where they are often captured or killed.
Sumatran Tiger is also threatened by illegal wildlife trade. Tiger body parts such as skins, whiskers, claws, and full body mounts are sold illegally. Prices vary widely. A full preserved tiger skin can cost between Rp. 5 million and Rp. 25 million, while tiger fangs are sold for Rp. 400,000 to Rp. 1.1 million.
Sumatra Tiger conservation efforts have been strengthened to prevent extinction. The government, non-government organizations, local communities, and other stakeholders work together to protect this species. Law enforcement against illegal trade and habitat destruction has been increased to reduce human–tiger conflict.
Sumatra Tiger protection is also supported by policies such as the Indicative Map for Suspension of New Licenses (PIPPIB), which stops new permits in primary forests and peatlands. Other actions include breeding centers, rehabilitation programs, and regular monitoring of tiger populations and habitats. These efforts aim to ensure the survival of Indonesia’s iconic and endangered Sumatran Tiger.