DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT
Africa. Open grasslands, dry thickets, savannas and occasionally forests.
BEHAVIOUR
The dwarf mongoose is a diurnal species. It lives in hierarchical social groups of up to 30 individuals. These animals use various shelters, including termite mounds, rock crevices and fallen trees.
DIET
It is the smallest African carnivorous mammal. It hunts insects, amphibians, small reptiles, birds, and rodents. Its diet is supplemented with fruit and roots.
REPRODUCTION
Usually, only the dominant pair in the group breeds. Courtship behavior includes mutual grooming and chirping sounds. Gestation lasts 49–56 days, and the female gives birth to 2–6 cubs.
GOOD TO KNOW
Dwarf mongooses mark their territory with secretions from anal glands while standing on their forelegs. This posture is also used to make themselves appear larger in the eyes of predators.
- Latin name: Helogale parvula
- IUCN Red List – LC – Least concern
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