Scientific Name – Surricata Surricatta

Classification – Small mammal

Gender Names – males – males; females – females; babies – pups

Collective Noun – mob, gang or clan

Average Height – 30 cm (12 in)

Average Weight – 730g (1.6lbs)

Top Speed – 32 km/h (20mph)

Life Expectancy – 12 – 14 years

Mating Season – No specific time

Pregnancy – 11 weeks

Special Features – Stands on its hind legs when looking out for predators

Family Unit – Meerkats are extremely social animals, sometimes living in groups up to 30. Each meerkat has a specific role to benefit the group – teachers, hunters, baby-sitters and scouts.

Geographical Distribution – South Africa, Botswana, Namibia

World Population – 500,000

Conservation Status – Low risk

Natural Habitat – Arid plains and deserts

Diet – Omnivore (meat and plant eater) – plants, fruit, insects, scorpions and snakes

Predators – eagles, snakes, jackals

 

Mammals Pages

Features
Classification
Mammals A – Z