Meet the Meerkat Pups: This Weekend!

Askham Bryan Wildlife Park has a new bundle of joy and it’s small, fluffy and full of life! The park, situated in the grounds of Askham Bryan College, has welcomed four meerkat pups.

Born to first time parents Lenny and Crookshanks the new arrivals are already venturing out and about and the staff and visitors can’t wait to see them.

New additions

In July we brought Lenny and Crookshanks into their new home. They came from Woburn Safari Park in the West Midlands and hit it off straight away. According to Tilly, Deputy Animal Sciences and Conservation Manager,

“When we introduced Lenny and Crookshanks together they got on amazingly well and wouldn’t leave each other’s side”.

Meerkats have a two month gestation period so the staff were on high alert for the new pups to arrive.

And it was worth the wait! In early September the four meerkat babies were spotted out of their burrow for the first time. As anyone who has ever seen a meerkat knows they are playful and curious and these pups are no exception. Over the past few weeks they have been getting stronger and spending their days exploring and getting used to life above ground.

First few weeks

Born blind and hairless meerkat pups are extremely vulnerable in their first few weeks. That’s why the newborns have been under the watchful eye of Lenny and Crookshanks in a custom built burrow for the past two weeks. Now they have been weaned by their parents they are strong enough to start venturing out and interacting with the world.

The staff are keeping an eye on the babies but it’s too early to tell the sex. Soon they will be due for their first health checks and then the fun of naming them will begin.

Meet the Meerkat family

Want to see these little ones for yourself? You’re in luck! Visitors can see the new meerkat family during the park’s opening hours, especially at weekends and school holidays. Watching these young meerkats is a real treat and a must see for kids and adults alike.

Whether you live local or are visiting, Askham Bryan Wildlife Park is a great day out for families. You’ll see the meerkat pups and many other animals including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

A hub for conservation and learning

The wildlife park, which opened its doors to the public in 2017, has grown into a thriving community hub. Each year, it welcomes around 20,000 visitors, including school groups and local organisations, for educational tours, workshops, and talks. The park is home to over 100 species, many of which are threatened, making its conservation work all the more vital.

As a member of BIAZA (the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums), Askham Bryan Wildlife Park is part of a network of zoos and wildlife parks that focus on education, conservation, and research, both in the UK and globally. This ensures that the park not only provides a top-tier experience for visitors but also gives Askham Bryan College students valuable, hands-on experience as they work toward qualifications in animal science, conservation, and related fields.

About Askham Bryan College

Askham Bryan College is a specialist land-based college with campuses across northern England. From York to Middlesbrough, the college offers a wide range of courses focused on sustainable food production, environmental conservation, and outdoor activity. With over 3,850 students and apprentices, the college has built a reputation for providing excellent education in fields like agriculture, animal science, and veterinary nursing.

Students benefit from the college’s strong industry links, gaining practical skills through work-based learning alongside their academic studies. Whether it's tending to animals, learning about forestry, or exploring motorsport, there’s a course for everyone who has a passion for the great outdoors or caring for animals.

Plan your visit

If you’re eager to meet Lenny, Crookshanks, and their adorable pups, head over to Askham Bryan Wildlife Park! You can book your tickets online or check out the latest updates on their social media pages @abcwildlifepark. Don’t miss this chance to see the newest members of the meerkat family up close and personal!

For more information about the park or to arrange a visit, head over to www.abcwildlifepark.co.uk, or follow their social media for the latest updates and announcements.