Saiga antelope calves stay with their mothers for several months, typically around 2 to 4 months, before they become more independent. During this time, the mother provides care and protection to her calf, ensuring it gets sufficient nourishment and learns essential survival skills. The calf relies on its mother's milk for the first few months of life. As they grow and develop, they gradually start to graze on solid food and become more self-sufficient. After this initial period of close maternal care, the young saiga antelope becomes increasingly independent, although it may continue to stay with the herd for protection and social interaction.