Dwarf Mongoose

Afrikaans name: Dwergmuishond

The Dwarf Mongoose is normally seen in small groups

Photo © Steven Herbert

Helogale parvula

Interesting facts about Dwarf Mongooses

The Dwarf Mongoose is sometimes referred to as the Common Dwarf Mongoose. I am sure that you can figure out that its name comes from its small size but did you know that it is Africa's smallest carnivore?

This mongoose eats mainly insects such as termites, beetles and grasshoppers. It might also eat fallen fruit and small reptiles if there is a chance.

Dwarf Mongooses are found in drier more open areas, but not deserts. Areas with termite mounds are a particular favourite as they like to burrow into them.

Male and females are a similar size. They weigh up to 350 grams.

They are social creatures and will normally be seen in a group. They are active during the day.

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References and further reading

African Wildlife - A photographic safari - Author: Nigel and Wendy Dennis - Year Published: 1999 - Page: 110

An Introduction to the Larger Mammals of Southern Africa - Author: Joanna Dalton - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 84

Animals of the Kruger National Park - Author: G. de Graaff - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 41

Chris and Tilde Stuart's Field Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa - 1st Edition - Author: Chris and Tilde Stuart - Year Published: 1988 - Page: 140

Field Guide to the Larger Mammals of Africa - 1st Edition - Author: Chris and Tilde Stuart - Year Published: 1997 - Page: 264

Field Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa - 3rd Edition - Author: Chris and Tilde Stuart - Year Published: 2001 - Page: 140

Field Guide to the Mammals of the Kruger National Park - Author: U. de V. Pienaar et al. - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 84

Kruger National Park Questions and Answers - Author: P.F. Fourie - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 307

Land Mammals of Southern Africa - A field guide - Author: Reay HN Smithers - Year Published: 1986 - Page: 130

Mammals of Southern Africa - Author: Burger Cillier - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 39

Mammals of the Kruger and other National Parks - Author: The National Parks Board - Year Published: 1980 - Page: 58

Questions and Answers - Mammals of Southern Africa - Author: Deirdre Richards - Year Published: 1990 - Page: 7

Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of Southern Africa - 2nd edi - Author: Editor - Alan Duggan - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 418

Signs of the Wild - 3rd Edition - Author: Clive Walker - Year Published: 1986 - Page: 87

Signs of the Wild - 5th Edition - Author: Clive Walker - Year Published: 1996 - Page: 82

Wildlife of Southern Africa - Author: Martin Withers and David Hosking - Year Published: 2011 - Page: 204

List of South African Mammals