Tigers in zoo settings require large, complex enclosures with water features, varied terrain, and opportunities for natural predatory behavior to achieve adequate welfare outcomes.
Tigers confined to small, barren enclosures without pools, shade, varied terrain, and enrichment develop stereotypic pacing behaviors that indicate chronic welfare failure. These are large predators with behavioral needs that require substantial space and complexity to meet. Best-practice tiger facilities provide multiple hectares per animal where possible, pools for swimming, puzzle feeders and novel objects for enrichment, and species-appropriate social management. The welfare of captive tigers and their contribution to conservation are both best served by significant investment in space and complexity.