Gestation period for cheetahs is about 90 to 95 days. The mother builds a secluded den within tall grasses or rock crevices where she gives birth to a litter of 1-8 cubs, but typically 3-5 cubs.
Neonatal Stage:
Cheetah cubs are born blind, completely helpless, and covered with a coat of long, soft, gray fur. The cubs are nurtured by the mother's milk and gain weight rapidly.
Early Cubhood:
At about 2 weeks old, cheetah cubs begin to open their eyes. Their characteristic markings start to develop as their soft gray coat gradually gives way to the signature spotted coat.
Juveniles:
Between the ages of 3 to 6 months, the cubs start becoming more active. They begin exploring the den and nearby surroundings, playing with their siblings, and learning to catch small prey.
Subadults:
At about 10 to 15 months old, the cubs reach the subadult stage. They spend more time with the mother and begin learning the critical hunting skills required to survive in the wild.
Independent Adults:
Cheetahs reach sexual maturity at about 2-3 years of age. Male cheetahs become solitary, while females form coalitions with their sisters to gain protection and support during raising the cubs.
Remember that the growth rate and developmental timelines can vary among individual cheetahs, and the availability of food, environmental factors, and predator pressure also play a role in their survival and development.