royal white tiger snow white tiger

Scientific name: Panthera tigris

The Royal White Tiger and the Snow White Tiger (Panthera tigris) are two stunning and rare colour variations of the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), both resulting from selective breeding rather than being distinct species.

Their striking appearances have captivated audiences, often taking centre stage in shows like Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden in Las Vegas. However, these genetic variations have frequently led to genetic bottlenecks among captive populations in zoos worldwide.

This phenomenon is mirrored in the breeding practices of domestic pedigree cats, where a myriad of colours and coat textures have been cultivated primarily for aesthetic appeal rather than functionality. The focus on appearance in both cases raises critical questions about the long-term health implications and genetic diversity of these animals.

Learn more about the More than Human exhibition.