Comparing Cats: A Discussion of Similarities & Differences

[Pckts]

(01-08-2019, 12:59 PM)Pantherinae Wrote:

(01-08-2019, 12:15 AM)Pckts Wrote: I asked Nick Kleer how the Tigers he's seen compare to the Lions he's seen

His response:
"
bengal tigers are a fare size bigger than lions"

He's a guide at the Londolozi game reserve


You can see our convo on his Insta if you're inclined. Nick Kleer (@nickkleer)

I think that is just a basic response I often see because many people think the tiger is much bigger before they have even seen them. I have seen lions in Krüger and tigers and there aren’t much to pick from, certanly not "a fare size bigger" I don’t think many people even guides are as interested in size as all of us are here on this forum. 

You also have seen both animals too, and a big dominant male in the reserve in which many belives to hold the biggest tigers in Central India. And if I’m not mistaken you also said they where pretty close in size. And I belive you are as I am very much more paying attention to the size of animals than most guides. So I think a large male tiger is bigger than small male lions and vice versa. 
And I consider you’re words as well as mine higher tbh and not to sound arrogant, but size is the first thing I think about when I see a big cat. I doubt that is the case with guides. 
Hopefully I can see a TOM tiger in Kanha then it will be even more interesting to compare. 

And I know you and I are fair when it comes to both animals. 
:)

I mostly agree with this but I still like to ask people who have a lot more experience than you or I.  We've seen a handful of cats compared with some who've seen far more, especially guides. I have asked that question quite a few times and I've gotten many different answers, including my own. But that being said, I've probably gotten a few more who say the Tiger is larger but that is anything but conclusive. But my personal opinion is that they're way too close to conclusively determine one to be larger than the other with the naked eye. Reply