Dwarf Mongoose

Mongooses are neither arboreal nor true nocturnal animal species like other members of Viverrid mammals (e.g. genets, civets and linsangs ). But, they are terrestrial and many of the species remain active during daytime. The dwarf mongoose has its origin in Africa, and is found to be the smallest of all mongoose species in the country. In fact, it is differentiated from the remaining mongoose species by its small size.

Dwarf Mongoose Information

Also known as common dwarf mongoose, it flaunts a wide array of coat colors. From smooth, reddish fur to speckled brown and glossy black, this mongoose is indeed very diverse in terms of coat colors. For many, rearing dwarf mongoose as pets need no introduction. Indeed, it turns out to be a lovable pet, when trained properly. If you love these hairy pets and are planning to keep one at home, the following info on dwarf mongoose facts will interest you.

Taxonomy
In zoological classification, dwarf mongoose is scientifically represented as Helogale parvula. Closely related to other mongoose species, they are grouped together in the family Herpestidae. A true carnivore in food habit, all mongooses including the dwarf version are members of the order Carnivora, while their taxonomic class is Mammalia, meaning the females possess mammary glands.

Description
This type of mongoose has a compact body buildup, and its body weight is similar to that of a squirrel (approximately 1 pound). The total body length measures about 8-12 inch. Identifiable features of this African mongoose are a short, yet pointed muzzle, large head, rounded ears and extra long, fluffy tail that tapers gradually. The limbs are relatively short, but bear long, non-retractable claws.

Habitat and Diet
As stated earlier, this small mongoose is a native mammal of Africa. It is found in almost all regions of the country. The habitat distribution usually falls in moderately dry areas and forests. The dwarf mongoose diet is highly versatile, and it can feed on a wide range of spiders, insects, scorpions, small lizards, snakes, rodents and birds. At times of food scarcity, this mongoose devours on ripe berries.

Behavior
It may exhibit both nocturnal and diurnal habit. There are also members which remain active during day and night. While some mongooses exhibit social behavior, others are spotted in solitude. One group occupies an area of about 30 hectares and more, and the number of mongoose may be 2-30. They are territorial animals, and a leader pair dominates a specific group.

Mongoose
The leader female is responsible for bearing young ones in the groups. Subordinate females do give birth to baby mongooses, but their survival rate is very low. Generally, 80 percent of pups in a group are born to the dominant pair. However, every member of the group is responsible for bringing up and caring for the pups. Many a time, the subordinate females are found feeding the young pups.

One of the amazing dwarf mongoose facts is its mutualistic relationship with Hornbill. They often hunt together for prey, and give warning signals to each other for approaching predators. Naturally gifted with good eyesight, the dwarf mongoose can spot predators from far away distances, both in air and on the forest floor. It trots at a fast speed, and has ability to climb trees rapidly. To be more precise, it is a very active mongoose species.

In the natural habitat, you can identify den sites of dwarf mongoose from the presence of termites mounds, where they inhabit. Being a wandering species, it hardly remains in one place for a longer period. In fact, groups of dwarf mongooses keep on changing their den sites from one place to another after every few days. It is beneficial to us in controlling rat infestation in gardens and around homes. Also, mongoose meat is consumed in some parts of Africa.