Want to know where and when to find Dwarf Mongoose? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.
Where to see Dwarf Mongoose in South Africa
Easiest first. Pick a park for when and where to look there.
About the Dwarf Mongoose
The common dwarf mongoose is Africa's smallest mongoose species and a highly social, diurnal carnivore. It lives in territorial groups usually centred around a dominant breeding pair. Groups forage together while feeding mainly on insects such as termites, beetles and grasshoppers, along with spiders, scorpions, small vertebrates, eggs and fruit. Members of the group cooperate closely and individuals may act as sentries while others forage.
How to identify the Dwarf Mongoose
Very small, slender mongoose with a grizzled grey-brown coat, pale underside, pointed snout and relatively short tail. Often seen moving together in groups and standing upright to scan their surroundings.
Did you know?
Dwarf mongooses are cooperative breeders: group members help defend the territory, care for pups and watch for predators.
Also known as: Common Dwarf Mongoose, African Dwarf Mongoose, Dwergmuishondjie, Dwergmuishond
Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Dwarf Mongoose, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.