Zoo set to welcome the ‘McMeerkat’ clan

Edinburgh Zoo is shrugging off the disappointment of its giant pandas failing to mate by welcoming a new family today.

A clan of 11 meerkats, dubbed by bosses as the McMeerkats, will move into their new home.

Darren McGarry, head of animals at the zoo, said they were sure to be a hit with visitors.

He said: “Edinburgh Zoo used to be home to a group of meerkats, and we’ve had so many requests from our visitors to bring them back, that we’re delighted to oblige.

“Appropriately known as a clan of meerkats, we’ve dubbed our new family the McMeerkats.

“Our new clan is made up of a family group of eight males and three females.”