Hobbies And Interests
From Conception to Birth
In some regions, females enter the stages of estrus during the entire year, while in others it is only during the winter months that they become receptive to mating. Post-conception, it usually takes around 16 weeks for a tiger to develop and be delivered.
In the Den
When cubs are born, they weigh about 2 lb. and lack sight -- the same as most cat species. It takes about eight weeks for them to develop within the den prior to release. During this time, litters (which usually consist of a few cubs) are constantly threatened by male tigers, including the father.
From Cubs to Mating
Cubs generally hang around the mother and are very dependent, much like humans. For at least a year and a half, cubs will depend upon their mothers for food and safety. After this point of growth, cubs will generally spread out, claiming their own territory. Females tend to claim territories relatively close to the mother, while males will spread out further. At about three and a half years, females become receptive to mating. Males are not capable of reproducing until about five years of age.
Adult Sizes
The number of species of tigers at present is arguable; however, at least five species exist including Siberian, Sumatran, Bengal and a couple of species located within China. The actual size and length of tiger species vary depending on type. The smallest species -- Sumatran tigers -- are only about four feet long and weigh around 250 lb. as adults. The largest species -- Siberian tigers -- can weigh well above 500 lb. and also grow up to nine feet long. Tails alone usually stretch up to at least three feet on most species.