Meerkats are nocturnal mammals that live in groups called clans. They are native to Sub-Saharan Africa and have been known to use tools and communicate using alarm calls. They are omnivorous and eat insects, fruit, roots, tubers, seeds, and even small vertebrates. Their diet consists mainly of grasses and herbs, but they will consume other vegetation if necessary. In addition to their dietary habits, meerkats are social animals and form clans based on age and gender. Meerkats are highly territorial and usually reside in large territories. These territories can range from 10 acres to 100 square miles. A clan may consist of several families, each consisting of 1-5 individuals. Each family has its territory and defends against intruders. Clans share resources like food and shelter and are often led by older females who are responsible for protecting the group's territory. Meerkats are considered solitary because they do not need to travel long distances to find mates, but rather look for partners locally.
Meerkats are famous for their ability to solve problems through teamwork. When faced with a problem that requires cooperation, they will call out to members of the clan and ask them to help. If the team cannot work together to solve the issue, then one individual will act as a leader and guide the rest of the clan. This is how meerkats solve conflicts without violence and ensure the survival of their community.
There are four types of meerkats. These include the White-bellied Meerkat, Black-backed Meerkat, Red-necked Meerkat, and Common Meerkat. The White-bellied Meerkat is the smallest of the four. It can reach lengths between 8 inches (20 cm) and 12 inches (30 cm). Its coloration varies from light brown to grayish-brown. It has a white belly, black spots on the sides, and two dark stripes running across the back. This species is the only member of the genus Suricata, which means “tail like a cat” in Latin. Its scientific name comes from this resemblance. The White-bellied Meerkat lives in dry savannahs, shrublands, and woodlands.
The Black-backed Meerkats are larger than the others. They may measure up to 14 inches (35 cm), but they rarely exceed 10 inches (25 cm). Their backs are marked with three broad, black bands. They live in arid regions where grasses and bushes are scarce.
The Red-necked Meerkat is similar in appearance to the Black-backed Meerkat. However, its neck is red instead of black. It measures about 11 inches (27 cm) in length. Its coat is reddish-gray with a black stripe along the spine. This species prefers habitats with dense vegetation.
The Common Meerkat is the largest of the four. It grows to a length of up to 16 inches (40 cm). Its body is tan and streaked with darker patches. Its tail is short and thick. This species lives in open plains and deserts. As a result of being able to withstand harsh conditions, it can survive even without water. Meerkats are diurnal (active during the day) and nocturnal (active at night). They spend much of their time sleeping during the day. Meerkats are solitary animals. There can be up to 10 individuals in a colony. However, a single individual may have several territories.
