Tigers Have A Pattern On Their Ears That Look Like A Set Of Spare Eyes

Tigers are such incredible, strong and unique cats. What makes them unique? First of all, tigers are the largest cats in the world! They are the embodiment of bravery, competitiveness and self-confidence. The are also difference from other wildcats due to their solitary nature.

Not only that, they have a unique marking on the backs of their ears, a white spot that resembles that of a set of eyes. This marking is called 'ocelli,' according to Tigers.org. But why would an animal so dangerous need such a unique pattern? Find out below!

Posted by AmyBrown

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Tigers have spots right on the back of their ears that look like eyes! But why?

Via Tigers.org
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Turns out, it's a defense mechanism where a prey animal mimics eyes of the predator animal even larger than them.

Via Tigers.org
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Tigers aren't the only species to have this defense mechanism, the feature is exhibited in a variety of species, from butterflies, to reptiles, fish and even birds (think peacock!)

Via Tigers.org
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But tigers are pretty high up there on the predator list, what purpose would they have for these prey defense markings?

Via Tigers.org
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There are two theories. 1. the ey-markings act as a form of intimidation and make it seem as if they're constantly watching and seeing everything around them, which discourages other animals from messing around.

Via Tigers.org
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Or theory 2, the markings help tigers communicate with one another and the display of the markings facing forwards is an act of aggression. When feeling threaten, tigers will twist their eyes so the backs are facing the front, exposing the eye markings

Via Tigers.org
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Some speculate that the markings are there for both theories listed above.

Via Tigers.org
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So to summarize, tigers have eye-like markings to appear larger, a big boss that's not to be messed with.

Via Tigers.org