Tigers do hiss, but this sound is only one part of their complex vocal repertoire, which ranges from aggressive warnings to affectionate greetings. These big cats, along with other members of the Panthera genus, use sounds to communicate territorial boundaries, signal aggression, attract mates, and bond with family members. Understanding these distinct vocalizations reveals much about the tiger’s social behavior and survival strategies in the wild.
The Warning Sound: Hissing and Spitting
A tiger’s hiss is a sharp, sibilant sound that signals irritation or a threat, much like its domestic relative, but with amplified intensity. This sound is a short-range, defensive communication used when the tiger feels cornered, surprised, or faces an immediate intrusion. The hiss is often combined with a forceful expulsion of air, known as spitting, which communicates a willingness to escalate the confrontation. This aggressive vocalization serves to intimidate a potential threat and warns others to back off immediately before a physical fight becomes necessary. The defensive sound is frequently preceded by a low growl or snarl, indicating the cat has reached its tolerance limit.
The Unique Friendly Greeting: Chuffing
In stark contrast to the aggressive hiss, tigers produce a unique sound called “chuffing,” also known as “prusten,” which signals affection and friendly intent. This gentle, non-threatening vocalization is produced with the mouth closed, as the tiger rapidly blows air out through its nostrils. The resulting sound is a breathy snort or a rhythmic puffing noise, sometimes accompanied by a head bobbing movement. Chuffing is an affiliative behavior used for social bonding, such as when two tigers meet or between a mother and her cubs. A mother tiger may use this sound to soothe her young, and it is also used during courtship between potential mates.
The Anatomy and Function of a Roar
The tiger’s most powerful vocalization is its roar, a loud, resonating call that is a primary tool for long-distance communication. This powerful roar can travel up to 2 miles (3 kilometers) and is used to establish and maintain territorial claims by announcing the tiger’s location. The roar also attracts mates during breeding season and warns away rivals, reducing the need for direct physical confrontation.
Anatomical Basis for Roaring
The ability of tigers to produce this deep, low-frequency sound is due to a specific anatomical feature in their throat. Unlike small cats, the bones that suspend the tongue and larynx, called the hyoid apparatus, are not fully ossified. Specifically, a part of the hyoid bone, the epihyal, is replaced by an elastic ligament. This modification allows the larynx to stretch and create a larger sound-producing passage, which, combined with the large, fleshy vocal cords, generates a deeper pitch.