LC Omnivore, Insectivore Arid Regions
0.6–1 kg
Weight
12–14 yrs
Lifespan
32 km/h
Top Speed
Kalahari Desert, Africa
Found In
At just 0.6–1 kg, the Meerkat is one of the lightest omnivore mammals (#30 of 33). Found in Kalahari Desert, Africa, it inhabits arid regions habitats.
Size, Speed & Lifespan
| Metric | Meerkat | Omnivore Mammals Median | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.8 kg | 12 kg | ↓ 93% |
| Height | 30 cm | — | — |
| Top Speed | 32 km/h | 35 km/h | ↓ 9% |
| Avg Speed | 32 km/h | — | — |
| Lifespan | 13 yrs | 17.5 yrs | ↓ 26% |
Range Across 2 Regions
Habitat: Arid Regions
Found In: Kalahari Desert, Africa
Coloration: Brown, Tan
Behavior
Natural Predators
Social Structure
Recorded as Social groups.
Reproduction & Lifespan
Gestation Period: 70–73 days
Offspring per Birth: 2-5
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Population & Outlook
LC Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List — one of 66 species in this database with the same status.
Weight Rank Among Least Concern Species
Ranked #57 of 66 by typical adult weight.
| # | Species | Weight | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | Kangaroo Rat | 35–150 g | LC |
| 56 | Lyrebird | 0.85–1.1 kg | LC |
| 57 | Meerkat | 0.6–1 kg | LC |
| 58 | Naked Mole Rat | Up to 80 g | LC |
| 59 | Potoo | 0.2–1 kg | LC |
| 60 | Red-Eyed Tree Frog | Up to 0.1 g | LC |