liger

A liger is a hybrid big cat produced by crossing a male lion (Panthera leo) with a female tiger (Panthera tigris). Hybrids of this kind do not occur in the wild, where the two species are geographically and behaviorally separate, but have been bred in captivity in zoos and private facilities.

Ligers are among the largest felines. Adult males typically grow longer and heavier than either parent species, with lengths around 3 meters (about 10 feet) plus a long tail and weights commonly ranging from 300 to 420 kilograms (roughly 660 to 925 pounds), though some individuals are reported heavier. Females tend to be smaller. Their coat is generally a tawny or sandy color with light, cross-cutting tiger-like stripes mostly on the legs and torso; some males display a faint mane around the neck, a trait not typical of either parent species.

In behavior, ligers inherit traits from both lions and tigers. They may exhibit the social tendencies of lions, yet retain the solitary hunting instincts of tigers. In captivity, they often require expansive enclosures, enrichment, and specialized care. They are typically fed a meat-based diet appropriate for large carnivores and may swim or enjoy water like tigers.

Reproduction is uncommon and usually not pursued; ligers are generally sterile, especially males, due to differences in chromosome numbers between lions and tigers. Consequently, reliable, sustained breeding of ligers has not established a natural population. Because hybrids are not a natural species, their conservation status is not assessed like that of wild felids. Ethical considerations regarding captive breeding for entertainment are widely discussed.