Tiger subspecies are spread out over differing regions and climates, which effects patterns of reproduction. Thus, the following is an outline of the basic characteristics of reproductive behavior found across tiger subspecies, but specific details may vary between subspecies. Female tigers reach sexual maturity around 3-4 years of age, while male tigers do not reach this point until they are 4-5. Once reaching maturity, female tigers signal that they are in heat (which occurs most frequently during the cooler months) in a variety of ways, including secreting a specific scent and attracting attention through roaring and other noises. These behaviors are meant to attract potential mates, who approach the tigress warily. Tigers are solitary creatures and therefore require a slower mating process while they ascertain that no harm will befall them. In some instances, tigers will fight over a mate both have claimed. These fights continue until one tiger gives up or dies. Tigers do not mate for life and take many different partners. An interesting fact about female tigers is that they do not release an egg to be fertilized until mating has already begun.
Once a female is pregnant, the male tiger is out of the picture and the tigress must take sole responsibility for her young. The female tiger's gestation period is four months and the general size of the litter is approximately 3 to 4 cubs. Female tigers care for their cubs until they are around 2 years old. Because tiger cubs stay with their mothers for so long, there is usually a 2 year gap between births.
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It is really interesting that tigresses only produce an egg to fertilize when they are in the process of being mated. I wonder if this helps their reproduction rate or hinders it? Or do they do this in order to not get pregnant when they do not want to get pregnant? Also, is there a difference between white and orange tigers in their reproduction or are most tigers solitary?
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