Dwarf mongoose

The dwarf mongoose is the smallest true predator in Africa.

It lives in a matriarchal herd structure, forming groups of 8-30 individuals with a strong hierarchy. The group is dominated by one of the older females, who is the only one in the group that is allowed to breed. The alpha male is hierarchically placed below her, while the other members of the group are organised by age with the youngest ranked highest.

The members of the pack have different tasks depending on their hierarchical position. The matriarch gives birth, the alpha male scouts for enemies, and the other adults provide food and care for the young.

The group communicates with each other via a variety of pipe and whistle sounds.

• Distribution: Grass, shrub and forest savannah in eastern and southern Africa
• Population: Not threatened
• Weight: Approximately 300 grams
• Body length: 18-26 centimetres. With tail approximately 38 centimetres
• Mating season: October-April
• Sexual maturity: 3 years
• Gestation: 49-56 days
• Number of chicks: Usually 4-6 chicks per litter. 3 litters per year
• Food: Insects such as termites, but also small mammals, snakes, scorpions and eggs
• Zoo menu: Mice, chickens, fruit and vegetables and insects such as grasshoppers and mealworms
• Life expectancy: 8-10 years
• Latin name: Helogale parvula