Beardsley Park in Bridgeport in Fairfield County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
Why We Don't Have White Tigers
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 6, 2023
1. Why We Don't Have White Tigers Marker
White tigers are not a separate species. All white tigers in North America are the descendants of a single tiger captured in 1951. Generations of inbreeding have increased the frequency of the white coat. Because of this inbreeding and the consequent health issues, they do not serve conservation purposes.
It is thought that 80% of white tigers die from birth defects associated with the inbreeding necessary to produce the white coat.
Many white tigers are not put on display because of deformities such as pug nose, bulging crossed eyes, scoliosis, cleft palates, as well as immune deficiency and mental impairments.
The white coat is actually a disadvantage in the wild. In fact, there is no evidence of a wild white tiger cub living to adulthood.
The controversy behind white tigers is one of ethics versus economics. Although many visitors flock to these unique creatures white tigers take up space in zoos and sanctuaries that could be better used to conserve true tiger subspecies.
Erected by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Industry & Commerce • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1951.
Location. 41°
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Amur Tiger Conservation (a few steps from this marker); Bald Eagle (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Bald Eagle (within shouting distance of this marker); Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's Big Cow (within shouting distance of this marker); American Alligator (within shouting distance of this marker); Amur Leopard (within shouting distance of this marker); Amur Leopard Range (within shouting distance of this marker); Melanism (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bridgeport.
Additional keywords. 🐅
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 6, 2023
2. Why We Don't Have White Tigers Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 16, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 41 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
