Meerkat
Meerkats are small, social mammals native to southern Africa, recognized for their distinctive upright posture and cooperative living in tight-knit family groups, primarily found in arid regions and grasslands.
Learn about the Meerkat
Scientific Name: Suricata suricatta
Classification: Least Concern
Size: Adults weigh around 0.6-1 kg and measure about 25-35 cm in length, excluding the tail.
Distribution: Native to southern Africa, particularly in the Kalahari Desert and surrounding regions.
Diet: Omnivore, primarily feeding on insects, small vertebrates, and plants.
Lifespan: About 6-7 years in the wild; up to 14 years in captivity.
Breeding Size: Usually 2-5 pups per litter.
Primary Threats: Habitat loss, predation, and human activities.
Where are Meerkats Found?
Meerkats are commonly found in the arid regions and grasslands of southern Africa, living in burrows to escape the harsh conditions and evade predators.
Why are Meerkats Classified as Least Concern?
Meerkats are classified as least concern due to their wide distribution and stable populations, though they still face threats from habitat loss and predation.
Do Meerkats Have Long Lives?
Meerkats typically live around 6-7 years in the wild, but in captivity, they can live up to 14 years, exhibiting fascinating social behaviors and cooperative living within their clans.
