Animal rescue in Essex: Albert the Meerkat finds his tribe

Introducing meerkats can be tricky and getting the balance of the group right is essential, otherwise it can lead to serious problems. Luckily for Albert, he’s fit right in and is so happy to be with the group – they’re enjoying being snuggled up in the warm because let’s face it, who wants to be outside when it’s this cold?

Meerkats should never be left to live on their own and need the companionship of their own kind, nor should they be used as “props” for photos and social media posts. Whilst it’s currently legal to own them as a pet (which we find ludicrous), it’s a legal requirement under the Animal Welfare Act to meet all their needs – this includes providing a suitable environment and diet, as well as making sure that they can express normal behaviours. Owners must also provide them with the right social group, and protect them from pain, suffering, injury and disease. It’s impossible to meet these conditions in a home environment and a meerkat should never be kept as a pet. Thankfully Albert will now live the rest of his life with his own family of meerkats in a purpose built enclosure designed to replicate as closely as possible a meerkat’s natural home environment.