A social bunch
Meerkats are social animals living within sophisticated social colonies. They live in family clans, which consist of a dominant couple and their offspring. Sometimes several families come together to form a larger colony. These small burrowing animals mostly live in the savannah. Their underground burrows are used as a refuge from predators and for sleeping.
Always on guard
Contrary to the motto "Hakuna matata" from the movie "The Lion King", which means "no worries", meerkats are always on guard. While some of the colony digs for food ("foraging"), the remaining animals take position and guard the mob.
| Size | 24,5 – 29 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 700 – 750 g |
| Reproduction | gestation period 77 days, 1-4 subadults |
| Lifespan | bis zu 14 Jahre |
