Quick answer
Meerkats feed on mostly, adjusting with season, age, and what is abundant in Desert and dry savanna. That label is a preferred pattern, not every item an individual might sample.
Key takeaway
Meerkats feed on mostly, adjusting with season, age, and what is abundant in Desert and dry savanna. That label is a preferred pattern, not every item an individual might sample.
Meerkat diet overview
Meerkats (Suricata suricatta) are best summarised as Insectivore (mostly). Anatomy and habitat (Desert and dry savanna) decide whether they hunt, graze, filter, scavenge, or mix strategies across the year.
How meerkats find food
Energy-rich foods are prioritised when available; lean seasons force broader diets or longer travel. Young animals may eat different items or receive food from parents.
Meerkat role in the food web
As consumers in their food web, meerkats move nutrients and influence prey or vegetation.
Feeding and human conflict
Never feed wild meerkats. Habituation raises injury risk and can lead to lethal management. Captive diets must match species needs, not generic pet food rules.
Teamwork and sentinels
Meerkats live in cooperative groups of up to 30 or more. While most of the mob forages, one or more take turns standing guard on raised ground or a bush, scanning the sky and horizon for predators. The sentinel gives different alarm calls for different threats, telling the group whether danger comes from the air or the ground.
Raising young together
Meerkats are cooperative breeders. A dominant pair produces most of the pups, and other members of the group help by babysitting, feeding, and teaching the youngsters, including how to handle dangerous prey such as scorpions. This shared care gives pups a strong chance of survival in a harsh environment.
Sources
Meerkat FAQs
What do meerkats eat?
Meerkats feed on mostly, adjusting with season, age, and what is abundant in Desert and dry savanna. That label is a preferred pattern, not every item an individual might sample.
What is the scientific name of the meerkat?
Suricata suricatta — used in research and conservation listings for meerkats.
Where do meerkats live?
They are associated with Desert and dry savanna. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of meerkats?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.