The national animal of India is Tiger (Panthera tigris). It has a thick fur with yellow and black stripes. It symbolizes both power and grace. With strength and agility it has been always held, in high esteem in India. There are a total of eight races of the species. The Indian race, the Royal Bengal Tiger, is found throughout the country except in the north-western region. In order to check the decreasing population of tigers in India, the government launched the 'Project Tiger' in April 1973. Till now, 27 tiger reserves, covering an area of 37,761 sq km, have been established in the country under this project.