Mongoose

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Scientific Name: Herpestes edwardsii

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Mongooses are famous for their lightning-fast reflexes and their ability to take on venomous snakes, though they prefer to avoid danger when possible!
  • Their long bodies and short legs help them dart quickly through underbrush.
  • Mongooses have special acetylcholine receptors that give them partial resistance to snake venom.

EVERY SPECIES COUNT

While mongooses are not endangered, they face threats from habitat loss and conflict with humans. They play a vital ecological role by keeping snake and rodent populations in balance.

Curious to Learn More?
Reach out to our Education Team at education@emiratespark.ae we’re happy to share more wild facts!

MY CONSERVATION STATUS
Least Concern 80%

HOW LONG DO I LIVE?

Wild: 7–10 years
Under human care: Up to 14 years

WHERE DO I LIVE?

Native to South Asia and the Middle East, thriving in forests, scrublands, deserts, and near human settlements.

WHAT KIND OF EATER AM I?

Carnivore

WHAT’S ON MY MENU?

Insects, rodents, snakes, eggs, lizards

HOW MUCH DO I WEIGH?

Adults: 1–2.2 kg