Early Stages:
* Milk: For the first few months, tiger cubs rely entirely on their mother's milk for nourishment. This milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies, providing all the necessary sustenance for rapid growth.
* Prey: As cubs reach around 3-4 months old, their mother will start introducing them to solid food. She will initially bring back small prey, like birds or rodents, and leave them near the den for her cubs to explore and learn.
* Learning to Hunt: The mother will gradually start teaching her cubs how to hunt. This process can involve showing them how to stalk, pounce, and kill prey. Initially, the mother will likely do most of the hunting, allowing the cubs to observe and participate as they gain confidence and skills.
Later Stages:
* Hunting Together: As cubs get older (around 6-12 months), they begin to actively participate in hunts alongside their mother. The mother will guide them, teaching them to cooperate and share prey.
* Independence: Eventually, the cubs become more independent, learning to hunt and fend for themselves. They will typically stay with their mother for about two years, before venturing out to establish their own territories.
Important Notes:
* Mother's Role: The tiger mother is crucial for the cubs' survival. She provides food, protection, and teaches them vital skills needed for their future. She is fiercely protective and will defend her cubs from any threats.
* Importance of Play: While hunting and feeding are essential, play is also a crucial part of the cubs' development. Play helps them develop social skills, coordination, and hunting instincts.
* Cannibalism: Although rare, there are instances where tiger mothers may resort to cannibalism if food is scarce, or if a cub is weak or injured. This is a survival mechanism for the mother to ensure the survival of her strongest cubs.
Overall, the feeding process is a complex and crucial part of the tiger cub's development, guided by the mother's dedication and expertise.