Dwarf Mongoose

You wouldn't say it given its size, but the dwarf mongoose is a true predator. They hunt insects and spiders, as well as small lizards. It is a diurnal and social animal, so you will often see them busy with each other in the exhibit. In nature, they hide among stones, in termite mounds and sometimes near bee nests. That way they are protected in the event of an attack by another predator, clever right? That's not the only clever collaboration, by the way! With hornbills - a species of bird with a large strong horn above its beak - they cooperate during hunting. The bird warns the mongooses of danger, and insects that manage to get away are eaten by the birds!

General information dwarf mongoose

Scientific name: Helogale parvula

The dwarf mongoose to the mongoose family. It is easily distinguished from other mongoose species by its size. They are reddish-brown, but sometimes darker in color and have a pointed nose. They are social diurnal animals that sometimes live in large groups of males and females. The females are in charge; the males have a guarding role in the group.