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The simple answer is that the gene that causes the white coat of the white tiger is a mutant gene and thus is very rare. In most places where tigers are indigenous (native), a white coat would be a disadvantage rather than an advantage. The normal orange coloring of the tiger combined with its stripes actually help the animal to blend into its surroundings when hunting. White tigers tend to lose that advantage and are much more easily spotted by potential prey.

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14y ago
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3mo ago

White tigers are rare because their white coloration is caused by a genetic mutation that is present in a very small percentage of the tiger population. This mutation is the result of inheriting two copies of a recessive gene that affects the production of pigment in the fur. In the wild, white tigers are at a disadvantage due to their conspicuous coloration, making them more vulnerable to predators.

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Q: Why are white tigers rare?
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Related questions

How rare are White Tigers?

About 1in200,000


Are white Bengal tigers rare?

yes they are


What are the white tigers enemies?

Humans are the only threat to tigers, and white tigers are only a very rare color morph of the Bengal.


How tall are white tigers in inches?

All Bengal tigers are around three feet at the shoulder. White tigers are a rare color variant of Bengal tigers.


Do white tigers live in Argentina?

No. White tigers are a rare color morph of the Bengal tiger. They are native to India.


How did the orange tiger become a white tiger?

Orange tigers don't become white, they are born white. White tigers occur when two other tigers both have a rare white gene.


Can orange tigers be born by two white tigers?

It's possible, but rare. Normally it would be a white tiger if two white tigers mated and made cubs.


When did white tigers become extinct?

White tigers have not become extinct. They are a rare color variant of the Bengal tiger and still exist in captivity. However, in the wild, white tigers are extremely rare due to the genetic mutation that causes their coloration.


Do white tigers exist?

White tigers do exist, but are rare because in order to be born they must have a special mix of DNA to give them white fur.


Why are white Bengal tigers endangered?

All Bengal tigers are endangered. The white is a rare color morph, found in normal litters.


What do you do to make sure the white tigers don't go extinct?

As white tigers are only a rare color morph of the Bengal tiger, protect that subspecies and there will always be a chance of more white tigers.


How many reasons are white tigers getting killed?

At present, there are no known white tigers in the wild. White tigers are only Bengal tigers, a rare color morph, and can appear in a normal litter at any time. They are not a separate species.