There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
I think a focal point when analysing the hunting attempts of tigers is the main role played by the sneak attack/ambush strategy.
I would guess this factor is much more important then sheer size and strenght of the tiger and of his preys. Every tiger in the world who would face a 1000kg bull gaur into an open confrontation i would say it will share close to zero chances to the kill the massive herbivore.
How much success the sneak attack will have it will be the decisive factor against every massive prey, i personally believe there is no difference between a 500kg gaur and a 1000kg gaur if the tiger manages to silently ambush the beast, with a bite to the throat from below or with a timely jump on his back followed with a bite on the neck.
Even if the bull gaur is able to fend of the tiger after being bitten to the neck or throat there are chances it will bleed to death after some time or it will become so weak that the tiger will have another chance to sneak up on him again. In conclusion i would say that for an adult male tiger with great expertise on gaurs hunt there is no big difference between an average size gaur or a really big one, as long the ambush attack manages to hit the soft spots.
Maximum size of prey that a single male lion or tiger can kill
