Another meerkat offspring at Chemnitz Zoo
Two young animals are already exploring the enclosure - second offspring this year
Two new meerkat cubs have been born at Chemnitz Zoo on 21 September. This is the second offspring this year.
In the first few weeks after their birth, the young animals remained well protected in their underground den. They now regularly venture outside so that visitors can observe the lively behaviour of the little meerkats at close quarters.
A litter usually comprises around two to four young. The average gestation period is 77 days. At birth, the young's eyes and ears are still closed. They only open after two weeks. The young are suckled for the first two months. Meerkats are sexually mature after about a year.
Meerkats can raise up to three young per year. This is possible because all members of the colony support each other in rearing their young.
Meerkats are found in the wild in southern Africa. They live in dry, open landscapes with short grassland and sparse woody vegetation. Their favourite habitat is the savannah, but they also live in semi-deserts.
At Chemnitz Zoo, the meerkats are among the public's favourites. With their vigilant behaviour, their typical "guard posts" and their social coexistence, they fascinate visitors young and old alike.
Opening hours of the zoo and wildlife centre:
October: 9 am to 5 pm
November: 9 am to 4 pm
Last admission and closing time one hour before closing time.