...if you dare!

I was trying to get some different angles of Rocky's tail and didn't have this anatomy lesson in mind at the time of this capture; however, you may find this of interest...

At the base of the tail is the tiger's anus - solid waste disposal chute opening. It's somewhat indented and black in color surrounded by white fur. Then as you go south a few inches you will notice a mound-like protrubance covered with white hair and a dot of black hair in the center. That is the business end of the musk gland. This is where a scented fluid is voided under pressure to mark the tiger's territory, indicate displeasure, etc.. The musk has a very distinctive pungent scent. Captive tigers also use this musk to display their dominance and displeasure with photographers.

Two women photographers were about 8 feet in front of me. Rocky was walking parallel about 7 or 8 feet from them. I noticed Rocky suddenly swivelled his rear hips slightly toward them. He swung his tail to his left and sprayed a stream of musk at the women to his right. They moved as if lightening had struck and ran - trying to hide behind me. Thank you ladies for your vote of confidence! Fortunately Rocky missed everyone involved. The excitement was a rush though. As for Rocky's musk stream, it shot out another 4 feet beyond where the women had been. No photos, but take my word for it, it was like a water hose stream on lower pressure, but faster. lol.