Eight meerkat kits born at Point Defiance Zoo

At Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, the meerkat mob has grown with the birth of eight kits, as mothers Keeya and Naledi each welcomed four pups. Keeya’s kits, born in mid-March, have started to venture outside their den, allowing zoo guests a glimpse of their playful antics. Meanwhile, Naledi’s pups, born more recently, are still bonding with their mother in a behind-the-scenes den. Natalie Davis, a curator at the zoo, expressed her enthusiasm about these births, noting the unique opportunity they provide for education and connection with the species. Meerkats are social creatures that engage in grooming and play, which are essential to their community dynamics.

Their typical gestation period is about eleven weeks, with litters ranging from three to four pups, although up to eight can occur. These fascinating animals are adapted to life in the African savannah, equipped with features that aid their survival in arid conditions. The meerkats' habitat at the zoo mimics their natural environment, enhancing the educational experience for visitors.