We’ve got some very exciting new arrivals here at Blair Drummond. Four adorable meerkat pups, born on the 10th of May, are now out of their burrow and beginning to explore the big wide world!
Their parents, Cardi B and Biggie, are an experienced pair – this is their third litter since they arrived at the park in 2022 – and they’ve been doing a brilliant job once again. But raising meerkat pups is definitely a group effort. Meerkats live in close-knit family groups called mobs, and everyone plays a role in looking after the babies. It’s one of the things that makes them so fascinating to watch.
Incredibly, even female meerkats who haven’t had pups of their own can start producing milk to help feed the group’s young. That means mum gets lots of support, and the pups are surrounded by watchful eyes and plenty of care.
Our four new pups have spent their first few weeks safely tucked away inside. Meerkat pups are born blind, deaf and almost hairless, so the early days are all about growing strong and staying safe. But now, at around a month old, they’ve opened their eyes and begun tottering around outside – and they’re already full of character!
They’ve started nibbling on bits of solid food, following the adults around, and practising their digging skills – though they’ve still got a bit to learn on that front.
Carolyn, our Pets’ Farm Team Leader, said: “The pups are just starting to find their feet and show a bit of character – it’s a brilliant stage to watch. They’re getting more confident by the day, and the rest of the mob has really stepped up to help raise them. It’s a real family effort.”
If you’re visiting the park soon, don’t miss the chance to see them in action. The meerkat habitat is one of our most popular spots, and with four mischievous pups to keep an eye on, it’s better than ever.
And if you can’t make it in person, don’t worry – we’ll be sharing regular ‘pupdates’ on our social media channels, so you can follow along as the pups grow and explore.