Meerkat
The meerkat (*Suricata suricatta*), also called a suricate, is a small mammal in the mongoose family native to southern Africa.
The meerkat (*Suricata suricatta*), also called a suricate, is a small mongoose native to southern Africa, famous for standing upright as a sentinel. It lives in highly social groups in burrows across deserts and savannas.
What it is
A meerkat is a burrowing mammal in the family Herpestidae and the order Carnivora. It has a grizzled brown or grey coat and dark patches around the eyes to reduce glare. It is also known as a suricate.
Where it lives
Meerkats are found in the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and possibly southwestern Angola. Their habitat includes deserts, grasslands, and open plains.
Why it matters
Meerkats have a stable population trend and are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. They are well-known in wildlife media and zoos in Canada, helping people understand cooperative behaviour in animals.
In short
- Meerkats are small, social mongooses native to southern Africa.
- They are known for standing upright to watch for predators.
- The species is not endangered and is considered stable.
- They are omnivores living in burrows.
Meerkats are familiar to Canadian readers mainly through zoos, wildlife media, and natural-history programming rather than as a native Canadian species.
Quick questions
What is a meerkat?
Where do meerkats live?
Are meerkats endangered?
Sources
- National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/meerkatSupports: Common name, scientific name, habitat, physical description, social behaviour, diet, and conservation status.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/meerkatSupports: Scientific name, size, weight, IUCN status, and population trend.
- PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/meerkat-fact-sheet/Supports: Taxonomy, family classification, southern Africa range, and Least Concern status.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/meerkatSupports: Definition as a burrowing mongoose in southwestern Africa and upright sentinel behaviour.
- Smithsonian National Zoo — https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/meerkatSupports: Diet, social groups, burrow living, range, and physical features.