International Tiger Day
About International Tiger Day
When is International Tiger Day? This holiday is always celebrated on July 29
Today we celebrate International Tiger Day, also called World or Global Tiger Day, a July 29 holiday. This day celebrates tigers, the largest cat on the planet. Tigers are arguably the most beautiful and majestic cats on the planet, too. Love ’em, hate ’em, or just plain scared of them, one must admit that they are indeed a beautiful animal. Unfortunately, their numbers are dwindling at an alarming rate and they are an endangered species.
In 2010, at an International Tiger Summit in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the plight of wild tigers came into full focus. 13 tiger range countries were in attendance. 2010 was the Asian calendar’s “Year of the Tiger”. Over the last century, the world-wild tiger population dropped by 97% (not including tigers in zoos). With only an estimated 5,000 tigers left in the wild, they are on the brink of extinction. Drastic population loss was due to several factors, among them were hunting, poaching, and loss of habitat. The 13 countries in attendance set a goal to double the number of tigers in their country before the next “Year of the Tiger> (12 years later or 2022). This international group also seeks to raise awareness of the plight of the tiger and to protect and expand their habitat. It is an international effort.
For the 13 countries that attended the 2010 summit in Russia, this is a huge day. They are committed to increasing the number of tigers in their country. And, they actively pursue improving tiger conservation and habitat. The countries use this day to celebrate their success in these aims. Also, they seek to increase education and awareness.
America’s Favorite Tigers: Tony the Tiger and Winnie the Poo’s friend Tigger.
Song of the Day: Eye of the Tiger (1982). Sung by the band Survivor.
Tiger Trivia and Fun Facts
As you enjoy International Tiger Day, browse these interesting and useful trivia and fun facts about them:
- They are the largest cats in the world. The Siberian Tiger is the largest subspecies.
- They are native to Asia.
- Tigers are an endangered species. with only an estimated 5,600 left in the wild.
- Jaipur, a Siberian Tiger grew to a record 935 pounds and 10.5 feet long. He lived in a private facility in New Jersey.
- They are excellent swimmers.
- Tigers are fast, too. They can run 30 to 40 miles per hour.
- The cubs are born blind at birth. Thus, for a short period of time, they are completely helpless.
- In the wild, they live an average of 10 to 15 years.
- They have over 100 stripes. Yet, no two tigers have the exact same stripe pattern.
- Not only is their fur striped, but their skin is striped, too.
- Tony the Tiger is the mascot for Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes cereal.
- If you see a tiger with his eyes closed, then he is feeling safe.
How to Celebrate International Tiger Day
There are many things you can do to celebrate this special day and help this endangered species. Here are a few ideas:
- Read up about tigers and their loss of population.
- Show your support of groups working to raise awareness and improve their habitat.
- Go to the zoo and see these majestic creatures.
- Watch a documentary about them.
- Make plans to go on a safari, to see tigers in their native habitat.
- Donate to the cause.
Today's Quote
What’s a tiger running a copier called? … a copycat.
History and Origin of International Tiger Day
International Tiger Day originated in 2010. It was founded at an International Tiger Summit in Saint Petersburg, Russia. There are several sponsors, including the World Wildlife Federation.
This is truly an “International” day. The plight of the tiger, and efforts to grow its population in the wild, are supported by many countries and international groups.
This Day in History
Besides International Tiger Day, here are some things that happened on July 29:
- Sir Lord Baden-Powell creates the Boy Scouts in England. (1909)
- Charles, Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer are married. (1981)
- Country singer Martina McBride was born on this day in 1966.
More July 29 Holidays
Additionally, here are more July 29 holidays we are sure you will enjoy:
More About Today
Explore more about the “goings on” on this date.
This Day in History – Indeed, many other important events occurred on this date in July. See what happened on this date in history.
Famous July Birthdays – Did you ever wonder what famous people share your birth date? If so, then find out now!
Ecards – Send a free Ecard daily for just about any calendar holiday, occasion, observance, or event. Undoubtedly, it’s fun for both the sender and the recipient.
Flower of the Day: Angel Trumpet
Recipe of the Day: Traditional Buffalo Chicken Wings and Buffalo Chicken Wing Dip
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Did You Know? Furthermore, in addition to International Tiger Day, there are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. What’s more, many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays regularly. July holidays are no exception. Consequently, at Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.