White-Tailed Mongoose

Appearance:

No size difference exists between the sexes, which are physically similar in  appearance. Body length measures 1.1 m and the mass is 4.3 kg. The coat is dark-grey in colour, and the tails are distinctive with long, white hairs. Legs are black and front limbs appear short.

Diet:

The diet of the White-Tailed Mongoose consists mainly of insects, termites, beetles, grasshoppers and crickets. Known to also take amphibians, rodents and snakes.

Breeding

Gives birth to a litter of between one and three young after a gestation period of two months. Mating occurs around November, and birthing is mostly during summer months.

Behaviour:

The White-tailed Mongoose is mainly solitary, but may live in small clans.

Habitat:

The White-Tailed Mongoose inhabits well-watered woodlands and savanna.

Where they are found:

Distribution in South Africa ranges from the eastern parts of the Northern Province, through Mpumalanga as far southwards as East London.