The life cycle of a tiger involves several stages, each marked by distinct developmental milestones. From birth to adulthood, tigers undergo significant changes as they grow and learn to survive in the wild.

Tiger cubs are born blind and helpless, relying entirely on their mother for warmth, nourishment, and protection. They begin to open their eyes and explore their surroundings around two weeks of age. Cubs are highly dependent on their mother for the first few months, during which they learn essential skills such as hunting and territory marking through play and observation.

As cubs grow, they become more independent and start to accompany their mother on hunting trips. By six months of age, they begin to eat solid food, although they continue to nurse until around eight months. Cubs typically stay with their mother for about two years, during which time they learn how to hunt, avoid dangers, and establish their own territories.

Once they reach adulthood, tigers become solitary and territorial. Males and females live separate lives, with males establishing larger territories that overlap with the territories of several females. Tigers reach sexual maturity around three to four years of age, and mating occurs during the breeding season. After mating, females give birth to a litter of cubs, continuing the cycle of life.

The life span of a tiger in the wild typically ranges from 10 to 15 years, although individuals can live longer in captivity. The challenges of survival, including hunting, avoiding conflicts with other tigers, and dealing with human-wildlife interactions, shape the life cycle of these magnificent animals.