Threats
Climate change may affect rainfall patterns, further aggravating the aridity of meerkat habitats. This may pose a threat to their reproduction.
Mammals
Meerkat
Scientific Name
Suricata suricatta
Other Common Name(s)
Slender-tailed Meerkat
Body Weight
Up to around 1 kg
Body Length
Head and body: up to 35 cm
Tail: up to 25 cm
Habitat
Dry and open savannas near desert
Diet
Mainly insects, as well as spiders, scorpions, snails, lizards, birds, mice and fruits
Fun Facts
How to become the “MVP” of meerkats? Stay sharp, stand tall! Meerkats take day shifts to serve as scouts, looking out for predators or invaders from a distance. And be alert when on duty. When danger approaches, call out so that everyone is on guard or can evacuate to the burrows. If an enemy, like a cobra, comes close, fight back with fellow meerkats!
Meerkats have a pair of sharp claws that make excellent digging tools. Like little treasure hunters, they unearth prey beneath the ground. They also dig burrows to keep cool, stay warm, and hide from predators. To keep out sand and stones while digging, they can close their ears and their eyes are protected by a special membrane.
Distribution
Southern Africa, including countries such as South Africa, Namibia and Botswana
Threats & Conservation
Threats & Conservation
Conservation
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