Number of Young

Often 3, but can be anything from 1-6.

Gestation

92-105 days.

Birth

Leopard cubs are much darker in colour than the adult leopard. They weigh 45-60 grams and are about 15 centimetres long. The cubs are born blind and helpless, and are therefore kept in secluded spots, such as thickets and rocky crevices. The babies open their eyes after about a week. Female leopards are very dedicated mothers and only leave their cubs in order to go hunting. Every now and then the mother brings a small live animal home so that her cubs can get hunting and killing experience.

The babies first try solid food at about 40 days old and gradually accompany their mother on excursions and hunting expeditions. They cease taking milk from their mother after 3 months, weighing about 2.5-3 kilograms at this time. Around the age of 2, the cubs leave their mother and look for their own territory. Siblings may remain together for several months before separating. Dispersal may also be delayed in areas where prey is abundant, especially if nearby habitat is occupied by resident leopards.