The mating season for tigers generally occurs from November to February of the following year. During estrus, a tiger’s calls become particularly loud and can be heard up to 2 kilometers away. The gestation period is approximately 105 days, with a litter size ranging from 1 to 5 cubs, typically 2. Newborn tiger cubs weigh about 1 kilogram. The lactation period lasts 5 to 6 months. Female tigers stay with their cubs for 2 to 3 years, during which they do not mate or go into estrus. Under natural conditions, a female tiger reproduces only once every 2 to 3 years. Females reach sexual maturity at around 3 years of age, while males mature slightly later. The average lifespan of a tiger is 20 to 25 years.