Meerkat | Welsh Mountain Zoo

Meerkat

Suricata suricatta


  • Not Evaluated
  • Data Deficient
  • Least Concern
  • Near Threatened
  • Vulnerable
  • Endangered
  • Critically Endangered
  • Extinct in the Wild
  • Extinct

Meerkats are part of the Mongoose family and originate from the African continent. They have long bodies, typically between 25 cm and 30 cm, and have the ability to stand on their back feet. A sociable group of animals, the Meerkats live together as a ‘mob’ in deep burrows, dug using incredibly sharp claws.

Native Range →

Southern Africa

Natural Habitat  →

Desert and grasslands

Diet  →

Insects, eggs, small reptiles and plants

Life Expectancy  →

12-14 years in the wild. Up to 15 years in zoos

Breeding  →

1-5 pups from an 11 week gestation period

Group Name  →

Mob

Active Hours  →

During the day

Threats  →

Illegal pet trade

Fun fact

Meerkats live in underground burrows in large groups of up to 30 individuals and these can be called a gang or a mob

Website by FutureStudios