Mongoose

Mongoose is the common name for a group of small carnivorous mammals in the family Herpestidae.

Mongoose is the common name for a group of small carnivorous mammals in the family Herpestidae. They are found mainly in Africa, with other species in southern Asia and southern Europe, and are known for their hunting of insects, rodents, birds, reptiles, eggs, and sometimes venomous snakes.

Taxonomy and classification

Mongooses belong to the family Herpestidae within the order Carnivora. Sources describe roughly 33 to 34 living species across multiple genera.

Distribution and habitat

Mongooses are found mainly in Africa, with additional species in southern Asia and southern Europe. They are usually terrestrial, and many live in burrows.

Diet and behaviour

Mongooses are active carnivores that feed on small animals, including insects, rodents, birds, reptiles, and eggs, and some species also eat fruit. A number of species are noted for confronting venomous snakes.

Human introduction and ecological impact

Humans introduced mongooses to various islands, including Mauritius, Fiji, Hawaii, and parts of the Caribbean, often to control rats. In some places, introduced mongooses have become invasive and threatened native species, especially birds.