Tiger cubs have a lot of learning to do before they can survive in the wild and hunt independently. Their time as a cub is spent observing their mother and practising essential life skills. They also need to rest a lot to ensure they grow big, strong and powerful. So, let’s take a closer look at the life of a baby tiger. And if you love tigers, don’t forget to book your tickets to see The Tiger Who Came to Tea live on stage. Family fun days don’t get much better.

Birth

Tiger cubs are born in a safe and secluded den, away from predators. Like all babies, tigers are often hungry after birth and look for milk from their mother. Since they’re born blind, they need to do this using their sense of smell. They feed several times a day for the first few months, surviving solely on milk. Tiger cubs don’t start eating solid food until they’re around two months old. Their eyes open when they are between six and twelve days old, so until then they must stay close to mum for protection.

Morning

Older tiger cubs will nurse in the morning and then spend some time exploring their immediate surroundings. They are curious and will wander short distances from the den, under the close watch of their mother. 

Midday 

As the day progresses, tiger cubs will spend their time playing. Pouncing, stalking and mock fighting helps them to develop useful skills they’ll need for hunting. Prolonged periods of play also encourages muscle development, helping the tigers to become big and strong.

After playtime, cubs are tired and need to rest. Tigers love to sleep and will nap for several hours a day. Sleep is also essential for their growth and development.

Afternoon 

The afternoon is also spent playing and nursing. Older cubs might get the chance to venture further afield with their mother. She’ll teach them essential survival skills such as how to recognise different prey and how to avoid other predators. Cubs can also practise their stalking and hunting skills.

Evening

If their mother has made a kill, she will lead her cubs to the food as part of the weaning process. The little ones will learn which parts of each animal are edible and how to chew the meat. Younger cubs will continue to nurse after small portions of meat.

Night 

Cubs will spend the night in their den getting plenty of sleep and rest. They’ll stay close to their mother for protection. If she goes out hunting, the cubs will remain in the den. Tigers grow very quickly and by six months they’ll be accompanying their mother on the night hunts. By the age of two or three, they’re old enough to leave their mother and establish their own territories.

If you’re looking for days out near me, don’t miss The Tiger Who Came To Tea at your local theatre this summer. Search for ‘indoor activities near me’ and enjoy a great day out with your family.