Zoo Animals

Meerkat

The meerkat (Suricata suricatta) is a small, highly social mammal native to the arid regions of southern Africa, including the Kalahari and Namib deserts. Meerkats are well-known for their cooperative behavior and iconic upright posture, which they adopt to scan the horizon for predators such as birds of prey, snakes, and jackals.

Living in large groups called mobs or clans, meerkats rely on teamwork to survive. Each member has a specific role, from babysitting the young to digging intricate burrow systems. Their burrows are essential for escaping the extreme desert heat and avoiding predators. Meerkats communicate using a wide variety of vocalizations, including alarm calls, which alert the group to potential threats.

As omnivores, meerkats feed on a diverse diet of insects, small vertebrates, and roots. They have a high tolerance for toxins in some of their prey, such as scorpions, and their immunity to venom makes them effective hunters in their environment. Their playful and curious nature, combined with their unique adaptations, make them a favorite in zoos and wildlife parks worldwide.