Animal Profiles
Mammals

Mongoose

Herpestidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Mongooses include solitary hunters and highly social species. This account follows the banded mongoose of sub-Saharan Africa, a group-living forager identified by dark stripes across its back.

Banded mongoose (Mungos mungo), the representative described in this account.

Banded mongoose (Mungos mungo), the representative described in this account.

Axel Tschentscher · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Location
The banded mongoose, Mungos mungo, is the representative used here. It occupies much of sub-Saharan Africa and uses grassland, woodland, rocky ground and riverine areas. True deserts are not typical habitat for this species.
Habitat
Savanna, Grassland
Diet
Insectivore
Food
Insects form a major part of the diet, with other invertebrates, small vertebrates, eggs and some fruit also eaten.

Classification

Common name
Mongoose
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Herpestidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Carnivora
Family
Herpestidae
Source classification
Mammalia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • Dark bands cross the banded mongoose's back.
  • It often digs or scratches to uncover food.
  • Groups travel together while individuals search for prey.

Habitat and range

The banded mongoose, Mungos mungo, is the representative used here. It occupies much of sub-Saharan Africa and uses grassland, woodland, rocky ground and riverine areas. True deserts are not typical habitat for this species.

Appearance and adaptations

Dark transverse bands mark the rear part of its back, contrasting with lighter brown or greyish fur. A pointed muzzle probes close to the ground. Curved claws on the front feet help scratch through litter and dig out hidden food.

Diet and behaviour

Insects form a major part of the diet, with other invertebrates, small vertebrates, eggs and some fruit also eaten. Groups move and shelter together, while members commonly forage individually nearby. Alarm calls help alert the group to danger.

Sources

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