The meerkat is a small mammal belonging to the mongoose family. Native to the deserts and grasslands of southern Africa, meerkats are easily recognized by their slender bodies, pointed snouts, and large eyes surrounded by dark patches. They have a tan or grey coat with stripes on their back and a long, thin tail used for balance. Meerkats are highly social animals and live in groups called mobs or clans, usually made up of 20 to 30 individuals. #meerkats #meercat #desertmeerkat #WildAnimalFacts