Meet Our Meerkats
Meerkats are extremely curious creatures, they have a strong ability to dig, they have long claws to help achieve this. They have many adaptations to survive in their environment, around their eyes they have black patches, this acts as sunglasses helping their eyes to adjust to the strong bright sun.
Range
Meerkats are native to southern Africa, particularly in the Kalahari Desert. They can be found in Botswana, Namibia, Angola, and South Africa.
Diet
Meerkats are omnivores, feeding on a diet of insects, small mammals, reptiles, eggs, fruits, and even some plants. They are skilled hunters and foragers.
Lifespan
Meerkats in captivity live between 12-15 years old. In the wild, meerkats typically live for about 8-10 years.
Conservation Status
Meerkats are classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN Red List, meaning they are not currently at risk of extinction. However, habitat loss and human interference pose potential threats to their population in the future.
Did You Know?
- Meerkats are known for their social behaviour, living in groups called mobs or gangs. They take turns standing guard to watch for predators while others forage for food.
- Meerkats have a role in their groups called a "nanny" this role makes sure that the pups are safe.
- Meerkats have a keen sense of smell and are highly driven to their food by scent.