Baby Tiger Throws a Lion-Sized Tantrum but Honestly It's Adorable
There are few sounds as panic-inducing as listening to a baby cry, even when that baby is a big jungle cat. The sound of a baby Tiger'scry has a very distinct pitch, often sounding more like a squeak. There's no need to panic, though - baby Tigers are simply developing their roar one cry at a time.
Animal videos on social media provide a terrific way for people to connect with the animal kingdom and learn more about wildlife. A recent TikTok video shows a stunning baby Tiger throwing a lion-sized tantrum.
In the video, the baby Tiger can be seen crying, its high-pitched wail sounding more like a dramatic meltdown than a sad cat. Commenters quickly empathized, suggesting the Tiger was undoubtedly crying for its mother based on the pitch of the cub's cries.
@maitredesrayures son original - MaîtreDesRayures
That may be true, but all baby Tigers sound more like they're squeaking than roaring when they're young. That's because a Tiger's roar is not fully developed at birth.
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Why Do Baby Tigers Squeak When They Cry?
@cc123676ujx The roar of a beast.#tiger#animals
So Cute - Audiosphere
Tigers are not born with fully developed vocal cords, meaning cubs are physically unable to produce the deep roar associated with adult Tigers.
Because baby Tigers cannot roar yet, their high-pitched cries help them communicate with their mothers, letting them know when they need food, warmth or attention.
A baby Tiger's cry carries a frequency that is easy for its mother to hear, even across long distances or through thick foliage. Since Tiger cubs are completely dependent on their mothers, these cries help alert her when they are in danger or in need of care.
As Tigers grow into adolescence, they gradually exchange their squeaky cries for the iconic roar of an adult Tiger.
Still, social media followers were emotional listening to the cub's cries.
"He's crying for his mother," one commenter wrote.
Another added, "Baby crying for mommy."
Others joked that the cub was simply throwing a "big Tiger tantrum."
In reality, this sweet baby Tiger is practicing his roar. He's going to need it when he grows up.
Related: Rare Golden Tiger Cub at the Dallas Zoo Needs a Name, and the Choices Are Adorable
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This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 3:29 AM.