Slender Mongoose

Appearance

Slender Mongoose females attain a mass of  575 gr. and are smaller than males at 715 gr. Colour varies from light brown to dark red-brown depending on the area within its distribution range. Underparts are lighter in colour. The long tails are distinctively black-tipped, which is characteristic of this species. In colder regions they can be melanistic.

Diet

Feeds primarily on small rodents, reptiles and at times also on birds. Also known to take invertebrates.

Breeding

A year-round breeder, but births occur more often in the rainy season. They have a gestation period of eight to nine weeks and deliver one or two litters per year, each consisting of between one and three young.

Behaviour:

Solitary, but a collective territory may be defended by coalitions of up to four males. This territory may encompass the ranges of several females. Related and unrelated males are included in these coalitions. Territories are not shared by adult females. Both the male and female offspring disperse to find their own space.

Habitat:

The Slender Mongoose Inhabits open woodland savanna, within which they favour more heavily wooded areas. Dens are established in disused termitaria, rock crevices and hollow trees. Koppies are also frequented.

Where they are found:

Distributed in the central regions of South Africa, as well as to the west, east and north, excluding Lesotho and coastal regions of Namibia.