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What behavioral adaptation helps the meerkat survive in the harsh conditions of the Kalahari Desert?
What behavioral adaptation helps the meerkat survive in the harsh conditions of the Kalahari Desert?
Meerkats exhibit several behavioral adaptations that enhance their survival in the harsh Kalahari Desert. Living in social groups known as mobs allows them to collaborate in foraging and provides protection against predators. They utilize a sentinel system, where some members stand guard while others search for food; the sentinels alert the group to potential dangers, enabling quick responses to threats. Additionally, meerkats are active during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late afternoon, to avoid the extreme heat and conserve energy. These cooperative behaviors and strategic activity patterns collectively enable meerkats to thrive in their challenging environment.