Who usually cares for the young and how long are they cared for before they must for themselves?

Typically, in many species, it is the parents, particularly the mother, who care for the young, providing them with food, protection, and teaching essential survival skills. The duration of this care varies widely among species; for example, many mammals may nurture their young for several months to years, while some birds may only provide care for weeks. In some cases, young animals are independent shortly after birth, while in others, they may rely on parental support until they reach maturity. Ultimately, the length of care is influenced by factors such as species, environmental conditions, and the specific needs of the young.