Biology
The Role of Cooperative Breeding in Meerkat Survival Strategies
Quick fact
In meerkat groups, the dominant female produces roughly 80% of all pups, while subordinate females often help rear these pups instead of breeding themselves, a pattern that is maintained by both kin selection and the harsh, unpredictable environment.
Why this is interesting
Meerkats are famous for their sentries and babysitters, but why would a meerkat forgo its own offspring to raise another's? The answer lies in a remarkable social strategy that ensures the colony's survival.