Cub Survival in Litters of 1,2 3, or 4
What size litter contributes the highest number of surviving cubs to the next generation? In northeastern Minnesota, it is litters of three.
The litter size (3) that contributed the highest number of surviving cubs (2.45) to the next generation was also the most common litter size; 22 (63%) of 35 litters were 3.
Litters of 1 or 2 were usually from first-time mothers. Subsequent litters from these mothers were typically 3.
Litters of 4 showed a higher death rate. Only half those cubs survived a year or more.
Litters of 5 are rare but have been reported from Minnesota, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New England. A litter of 6 was reported from Pennsylvania.
| Litter size | # of cubs
observed |
% surviving more
than a year |
# surviving more
than a year |
| 1 | 2 in 2 litters | 100% | 1.00 |
| 2 | 16 in 8 litters | 88% | 1.75 |
| 3 | 66 in 22 litters |
82% | 2.45 |
| 4 | 12 in 3 litters | 50% | 2.00 |
| Combined | 96 in 35 litters | 79% | 2.17 |
We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit that relies entirely on the support of visitors, merchandise sales and people like you. We do not receive any state or federal funding.
Help support our mission.
Donate Now