Meerkat

Suricata suricatta

Range

• South Africa

Habitat

• Desert grasslands

Diet

• Insects
• Small rodents
• Fruit
• Birds
• Eggs
• Lizards
• Scorpions

Colonies of these carnivores consist of up to 30 animals.

Each member of the colony has a specific job to perform that benefits the group. Sentries will stand on their hind legs and constantly use calls to update the colony and warn of any potential predators. Burrows offer protection and can be as deep as ten feet.