Understanding the Slow Reproductive Cycle of Grizzly Bears: Factors Affecting Population Growth and Survival – By Robert B
Source : Robert B LinkedIn
Grizzly bears have one of the slowest reproductive rates among terrestrial mammals, with females typically reproducing every 2.78 to 3.4 years. They reproduce for the first time when they are 5.8 to 6.3 years old, with litter sizes ranging from 2.1 to 2.19 cubs. The average number of years between litters is 2.78 to 3.4 years, and mothers stay with their cubs for about 3 years, avoiding male grizzly bears during this time. Breeding season for grizzly bears is from May through July, peaking in mid-June.
The slow reproductive rate of grizzly bears can be attributed to various factors, including the late age of first reproduction, small average litter size, long inter-birth interval, ecological factors, and competition from older, bigger males. Female grizzly bears typically cease breeding in their mid-to late 20s and may give birth to a maximum of 10 cubs over their lifetime, with half usually not surviving beyond a year.
