Meerkats are small, charismatic mammals that live in the deserts of southern Africa. Known for their upright stance and cooperative social structures, meerkats work together to dig burrows, forage for insects, and guard against predators.
In zoos, meerkat enclosures are designed with extensive tunnels and lookout points, allowing them to engage in their instinctual behaviors. Visitors are often captivated by their teamwork and playful interactions.
Zoos also provide insights into meerkat social dynamics, which can aid in understanding their adaptability to changing environments and human impacts on their desert ecosystems.