Meerkat Pregnancy

Meerkat pups "Zanzibar" and "Nairobi" are now 16 weeks of age and have just received their final health vaccinations. The two little girls take their meerkat responsibilities very seriously and can often be seen taking part in sentry duty, trying to stand on their hind legs. One Meerkat is always on look out for predators whilst the rest forage, ready to let out one of over 20 specialised calls for the group to take shelter in their complex tunnel system.

They are also busy learning the art of catching crickets and cockroaches. Meerkats are social animals and everyone has a role in raising the young.  The group have accepted the pups and they are settling in really well. All the females are vying for the opportunity to baby-sit. 'Pretoria', one of the aunties, seems to think the pups are hers! Her maternal instincts have definitely kicked in, which is a good sign for the future of our breeding program here at Taronga Zoo.

Meerkats are native to southern Africa and can be found in the Kalahari Desert. They have adapted to living in very harsh conditions and climate, with little water, limited food and many predators.  They have ears that can close in the event of a sand storm and dark patches around their eyes lessen the desert glare like sunglasses.