Twycross Zoo is home to a lively group of meerkats, members of the mongoose family known for their slender bodies, pointed faces, and distinctive black-rimmed eyes. These sociable animals live in packs of up to 30 related individuals, with a dominant or ‘alpha’ pair leading the group. Meerkats are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of small animals, insects, and vegetation.

The Meerkat Exhibit at Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo’s meerkat exhibit is a popular attraction for visitors, offering a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close. The exhibit features a large, naturalistic enclosure that mimics the meerkats’ natural desert and savanna habitats, complete with burrows, rocks, and vegetation.

Meerkat Behavior and Characteristics

Meerkats are highly social animals, and at Twycross Zoo, visitors can witness their intricate social dynamics. The dominant pair, often referred to as the ‘alpha’ male and female, are responsible for leading the group and making important decisions. The rest of the pack members, including subordinate adults and their offspring, work together to maintain the group’s well-being.

One of the most captivating behaviors of meerkats is their sentinel duty. Designated members of the group will take turns standing upright on their hind legs, scanning the horizon for potential threats. When a predator is spotted, the sentinel will emit a high-pitched alarm call, alerting the rest of the group to take cover.

Meerkat Feeding and Enrichment

At Twycross Zoo, the meerkats’ diet is carefully curated by the zoo’s expert keepers. These omnivorous animals feed on a variety of small animals, insects, and vegetation, including crickets, mealworms, and various greens.

To keep the meerkats mentally and physically stimulated, the zoo’s keepers provide a range of enrichment activities. This may include hiding food in different locations, scattering treats throughout the enclosure, or introducing new objects for the meerkats to explore and manipulate.

The Meerkat Encounter Experience

One of the highlights of visiting Twycross Zoo is the opportunity to participate in the Meerkat Encounter. This exclusive experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with the meerkats, helping the zoo’s keepers prepare their enrichment and then feeding the curious creatures.

What to Expect During the Meerkat Encounter

During the Meerkat Encounter, participants will have the chance to observe the meerkats’ natural behaviors and learn about their biology and social dynamics from the zoo’s knowledgeable keepers. Visitors will then be invited to assist in preparing the meerkats’ enrichment, such as filling puzzle feeders with their favorite treats.

After the enrichment preparation, participants will have the opportunity to hand-feed the meerkats, offering them small pieces of food and witnessing their unique feeding behaviors up close. This intimate interaction allows visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for these charismatic animals and their role in the zoo’s conservation efforts.

Booking and Availability

The Meerkat Encounter is a popular experience at Twycross Zoo, and advance booking is recommended to secure your spot. The encounter is typically offered several times a day, with limited group sizes to ensure a personalized and immersive experience.

To book your Meerkat Encounter, visit the Twycross Zoo website and explore the available experiences. By purchasing a day pass, you can also visit the zoo free for 12 months when you Gift Aid your ticket.

Twycross Zoo’s Conservation Efforts

Twycross Zoo is committed to the conservation of endangered species, including the meerkat. The zoo’s participation in breeding programs and research initiatives helps to support the long-term survival of these animals in the wild.

Meerkat Conservation Status

Meerkats are classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, but their populations can be vulnerable to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. Twycross Zoo’s efforts to educate visitors and support conservation initiatives help to raise awareness and promote the protection of meerkats and other threatened species.

Visitor Contributions

By visiting Twycross Zoo and participating in experiences like the Meerkat Encounter, visitors can directly contribute to the zoo’s conservation efforts. The revenue generated from ticket sales and animal encounter bookings helps to fund the zoo’s ongoing research, habitat management, and species protection programs.

Conclusion

Twycross Zoo’s meerkat exhibit offers a unique and immersive experience for zoo touring enthusiasts. From observing the meerkats’ intricate social behaviors to participating in the Meerkat Encounter, visitors can develop a deeper appreciation for these fascinating animals and the important conservation work being done at the zoo.

Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, a trip to Twycross Zoo and its meerkat exhibit is sure to be a memorable and educational experience.

References:
– Tripadvisor Review of Twycross Zoo
– Twycross Zoo Meerkat Information
– Twycross Zoo Animal Experiences
– Twycross Zoo Meerkat Encounter
– Twycross Zoo Animal Directory