Baloo with her pups Sahara and Gobi in April 2024
Photo by Laura Salamone-Maiden
The story of the Cape Crusaders is highlighted in this month’s Meerkatter. Cape Crusaders had not been seen since the end of February, but a group of meerkats thought to be Cape Crusaders has had numerous encounters with Side Quest in July. One of the meerkats was wearing a radio collar – most likely dominant female Rosetta (VCCF004), with a malfunctioning radio collar.
Jaxx dominat female Jub Jub
Photo by Laura Salamone-Maiden
Usually, female dominance in a meerkat group is inherited by the eldest daughter after her dominant female mother has died or gone missing. However, there are instances when the dominant female is overthrown by her daughter. This occurred within Jaxx in November 2023 when eldest daughter Jub Jub (VJXF160) took over dominance when her mother, then-dominant female Baloo (VJXF080), was in a weakened state from a puff adder bite. Female succession is discussed in the latest Meerkatter.
Jaxx eldest subordinate female, Baloo, who would be ten years old in December, has not been seen since August 10. Male dominance remains unconfirmed at Jaxx.
Alba Ozzie
Photo by Laura Salamone-Maiden
Alba adult subordinate male Ozzie (VECM033) was given his LAST SEEN, as was Side Quest sub-adult female Granita (VSIF031). Side Quest dominant female Pumba (VZUF048) gave birth on the 17th.
Side Quest Pumba and Otje
Photo by Laura Salamone-Maiden
Male dominance is still unconfirmed at Elrond’s Council, however the group had 20 encounters with unknown adult males this month.
All members of Nightwatch appear to be in good health. There are currently no signs of tuberculosis with any individual. Male dominance is still unknown.
Vetkoeks are still hanging in there with just four individuals. Phoenix was visited five times during the month.
Whiskers Medusa
Photo by Laura Salamone-Maiden
Female dominance is unknown with Hogwarts. Adult female Helga (VZUF052) is pregnant.
Female and male dominance is still unsettled with Whiskers. Yearling female Medusa (VWF263) was given her LAST SEEN.
The August 2024 Meerkatter can be found here.
Click here for the August 2024Life History chart.
For the latest Group Territory Map, click here.
