Meerkats
The meerkat (Suricata suricatta ), also known as the suricate, lives in areas of southern Africa. Meerkats, close relatives of the mongoose, are just one of approximately 72 species in the civet family.
Perhaps best known for their ability to stand on their hind legs, meerkats are very sociable animals, living in family groups of 30 or more. Meerkats in plains areas burrow for shelter and are known to be rather capable diggers. Those found in more rocky terrain live in rock crevices.
Although it is hard to tell from the meerkats heavy fur, they are quite slender animals, measuring about 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 centimeters) long, with a tail of about the same length. Their long tails allow them to stand on their hind legs for long periods. Males weigh between one and two pounds, with females weighing slightly more. Their fur is light gray, with black stripes running across the back. Their ears are dark, and their faces are usually white.
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Meerkats forage for insects, small mammals, lizards, snakes, birds and their eggs, as well as plant life such as roots and fruit. Their natural predators are birds of prey, for which they keep constant guard.
Meerkats are very playful animals; they hunt together and communicate quite well. In fact, at least ten communications signals have been recorded for the meerkat. They will often snuggle together for warmth, or nip at each other for fun. While they hunt, they make purring sounds to keep in constant contact with each other. One or more meerkats stand guard and will give a sharp cry if danger is present. The engaging meerkat has become a symbol for teamwork and cooperation.
Meerkats have very keen senses of smell and sight, although they are blind at birth. The average gestation period is 77 days, and the average litter size is two to five young. The average lifespan of the meerkat, recorded in captivity, is ten years.
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