Marwell's meerkats are moving home!

30th June 2011

A brand new home offering a unique insight into the complex world of meerkats is opening at Marwell Wildlife. Building work has begun and the meerkats have packed their bags ready for the big move at the end of July.

The new exhibit is being led by Marwell Wildlife’s Education team who are keen to offer the best outdoor learning opportunities for students. The meerkat home will contain a special education area, with undercover seating for visitors.

Earlier this month, a Government white paper encouraged more opportunities for children to take part in outdoor learning because of the huge benefits associated with it.

Caramantha Wellstead, Head of Education at Marwell Wildlife said: “Observation of real animals is one of the first hand experiences that Marwell offers and the new exhibit will be an excellent tool for students visiting the park.

“For example, animal behaviour is a vital element of the KS3 science curriculum and Marwell Wildlife will offer the perfect environment for these students.

“Meerkats are not only charismatic and fun to watch but they also have fascinating complex social groups.”

The new home will open just in time for the school holidays and a series of special talks will follow.

For updates on how the moving is going and for an insight into the life of a meerkat, follow Chico (most handsome meerkat in Hampshire) www.twitter.com/ChicotheMeerkat

For more information about the park visit www.marwell.org.uk