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Dwarf Mongoose
Scientific Name:
Helogale parvula
Habitat:
Forest and semi-arid areas (habitat can vary greatly)
Range:
Most parts of Africa
Average Size:
Length: 8 to 12 inches
Weight: 1 pound
Tail: 5 to 8 inches long
Description:
The smallest of the African mongooses, the dwarf mongoose is also the smallest carnivore in Africa. It is short and stocky, with a fairly blunt, pointed muzzle and a long tail. It is usually a speckled-brown or reddish color and is comparable in size to a red squirrel.
Life Span:
About 8 years
Diet:
In the wild: insects, rodents, lizards, snakes, birds
Status in the Wild:
The dwarf mongoose is listed by the World Conservation Union in the category of "least concern."
Behavior:
Dwarf mongooses live in groups of 12 to 15, covering a range of about 75 acres. Within a range, there are usually 20 or more termite mounds that are used as den sites, lookout posts and sources of food. Den sites are rarely used for more than a few days at a time as these creatures are nomadic and constantly on the move.
The groups are matriarchal, each led by a dominant female and her mate. The dominant female initiates group moves and has first rights to food. She is the only female allowed to breed, and she suppresses sexual activity among the others. The alpha male, a rank below her, spends the majority of his time defending the territory and scanning for danger from atop a termite mound.
The hierarchy within the rest of the group is age-based, with the youngest individuals ranking highest. This highly unusual social arrangement most likely assures that the young will get
sufficient food without having to compete with the adults.
Reproduction:
Only the dominant female breeds, usually producing two or three litters a year. The young are nursed for 45 days and are brought solid food by other pack members while they are being weaned. The young forage with the group by the time they are 6 months old. Females may reach sexual maturity as early as 3½ months, but social pressures prohibit them from mating before they are 3 years old.
Amazing facts:
Dwarf mongooses and ground hornbills often feed together, and both benefit from the arrangement: The mongooses disturb insects that the hornbills pounce on, and the hornbills alert
the mongooses of danger from approaching predators by making loud calls.
How You Can Help:
You can help the dwarf mongoose and other species by joining the volunteer team at the Oregon Zoo and getting involved with other conservation groups. Many organizations focus on conservation in Africa, including the African Wildlife Foundation, Tusk Trust, Conserve Africa International, the World Wildlife Fund, the Wildlife Awareness Foundation and the Endangered Wildlife Trust. Please do not buy products made from wild animal parts.
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