Dwarf Mongoose
Scientific Name
Class
Order
Range
Habitat
Estimated Wild Population
More Information
Physical Description
Dwarf mongooses are small burrowers that can reach up to 10 inches in length. They have brown fur, rounded ears, and a long tail. These mammals primarily eat insects, eggs, fruit, and small lizards. They are a highly social species, living in groups of up to 40 members. A dominant female is the highest-ranking member of each group, initiating movements between burrows and enjoying first access to food.
Interesting Fact 1
Dwarf mongooses often form mutualistic relationships with other species, such as hornbills that act as lookouts for shared predators.
Interesting Fact 2
The dominant female and her mate are typically the only members of each group to breed. Other adults help raise young by cleaning them, carrying them, and bringing them food.
Interesting Fact 3
These nomadic mongooses roam large areas and frequently switch to new termite mounds, which they use as dens.
Species Survival Plan®
We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.
Commitment to Care
Lincoln Park Zoo prioritizes individual well-being over everything else. Guided by scientific research, staff and volunteers work to provide the best welfare outcomes for each individual in the zoo’s care.
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Animals Depend On People Too
When you ADOPT an animal, you support world-class animal care by helping to provide specially formulated diets, new habitat elements, and regular veterinary checkups.
Wish List
The Wish List is full of one-of-a-kind items for the zoo’s animals, including nutritious snacks and enrichment items to keep them active and healthy.
Take Action With Us
Wildlife face many daunting challenges—some global, like planet-wide climate change, and some that affect individuals, like an animal ingesting plastic—but now is not the time to despair. None of these problems are too big for us to come together and solve.
