Meerkats

Meerkats are mammals. They live in groups called mobs. Meerkats are known for standing on their back legs. Some stand guard. Others look for food.

Meerkats have long, thin tails. The tails help them balance. They have long claws. The claws help them dig. A meerkat can close its ears. This keeps sand out while it digs.

Meerkats live in southern Africa. They live in the desert. They dig burrows. The burrows help them stay cool during the very hot part of the day. In the morning, meerkats lie in the sun to warm up.

Meerkats mostly eat insects. They sometimes eat lizards and birds. They also eat plants. Meerkats work together to hunt larger prey. If a guard meerkat sees a predator, it warns the others.

Female meerkats have two to five babies in a litter. The fathers and siblings help care for the babies. They teach the babies to hunt and play. Meerkats live for approximately eight years.