A Prehistoric Holdover?

According to science, African saber-toothed tiger species died out roughly half a million years ago. In the sub-Saharan countries of Chad and the Central African Republic, however, numerous sightings and reports of present day encounters with the Ennedi Tiger might call that theory into question. Most commonly said to roam the Ennedi Plateau and inhabit caves in the eastern mountainous region of Chad, the Ennedi Tiger is reported to be larger than a male lion and have red to reddish brown, short fur with thick, vertical white stripes.  The Ennedi Tiger possesses large, protruding canine teeth and lacks a tail. Strong enough to carry large antelopes, the Ennedi Tiger is said to be nocturnal.

Sub Species?

While you likely won’t be grabbing either one by the tail, the Ennedi Tiger is reported to have a sister species that prefers an aquatic environment and is reported to have a very long tail. Otherwise, the descriptions of the two species are nearly identical, with the latter being described as having long, protruding, walrus-like teeth. Due to similar reports of “water lions” in other African folklore throughout the region, some cryptozoologists have theorized that reports of the water dwelling variety of the Ennedi Tiger may be misidentifications of otters, which are known to have a range that overlaps areas where “water lions” have been reported.