The Lioness becomes sexually mature at 3-4 years old. In males sexual maturity is not reached until between 5 and 8 years. Females may come into season at any time during the year and give birth to litters of between 1 and 5 cubs. The average litter is 2-3 cubs. Both males and females may continue to breed up to 15 years old.
|
Approximately one-third of cubs die within their first year, this mortality rate falls to less than 10% for adult lions. In the Gir, females live on average for 17-18 years, but may live up to 21 years. Males, on average, live up to 16 years.
|