White Tiger in the Wild

White tigers are an exceptionally rare variant of Bengal tigers, their unique coloration caused by a recessive gene that results in white fur with black or brown stripes. Historically, white tigers were occasionally found in the forests of India, blending into light-colored landscapes near water. However, their rarity and striking appearance have made them targets for hunters and collectors, leading to their near extinction in the wild.

In the wild, their pale coats provide less effective camouflage than the typical orange-and-black stripes of Bengal tigers, making survival more challenging. Habitat destruction, human encroachment, and poaching have further reduced the chances of white tigers thriving in natural environments. Today, efforts to protect Bengal tiger populations indirectly support the genetic diversity needed for white tigers to appear naturally again.