Tiger, Malayan

Panthera tigris jacksoni

Previously considered Indochinese Tigers, the Malayan subspecies has only been recognized since 2004. Male Malayan tigers weigh an average of 260 pounds, while females weigh an average of 220 pounds. They can grow up to 7.5 to 9.5 feet in length, from head to tail.








Malayan Peninsula in Thailand and Malaysia


Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests

Life Expectancy

15 years in the wild; Up to 20 years in captivity

Sexual Maturity

Females: 3 years, Males: 4 years


Small and large vertebrae prey


IUCN – Endangered


Female Malayan tigers have a gestation period of approximately 104 days. Litter size is typically 2-3 cubs, each weighing only 2-3 pounds at birth. Females with cubs must hunt every 5-6 days, while solitary females only hunt every 8 days. Young tigers leave their mother around one and a half to three years of age. Females reach sexual maturity around three years of age, and males around four years of age. In the wild, tigers are solitary animals. In zoos they are also solitary, with the exception of brothers that are sometimes kept together. Tiger territories range between 10 and 30 square miles and depend upon food availability. Male tiger territories will sometimes overlap with the territories of several females. Tigers will mark their territories by scratching trees and by scent marking. Scent marking is when tigers “spray” trees and bushes with a mixture of urine and scent gland secretions. Tigers are capable of several types of vocalizations. They may roar loudly when threatened, they moan to communicate over long distances, and at closer ranges they “chuff” as a friendly greeting.


Special Interests

The Malayan Tiger was not recognized as a distinct subspecies until 2004.



Jacksonville Zoo History

Our Malayan Tigers joined our Land of the Tiger exhibit in 2014.


Land of the Tiger