Eastern dwarf mongoose

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Eastern dwarf mongoose
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Eastern dwarf mongoose ( Helogale hirtula )

Systematics
Superordinate : Laurasiatheria
Order : Predators (Carnivora)
Subordination : Feline (Feliformia)
Family : Mongooses (Herpestidae)
Genre : Pygmy mongoose ( Helogale )
Type : Eastern dwarf mongoose
Scientific name
Helogale hirtula
Thomas , 1904

The eastern pygmy mongoose or Somalia pygmy mongoose ( Helogale hirtula ) is a little-known species of predator from the mongoose family (Herpestidae). Together with the much better researched southern dwarf mongoose , it forms the genus of the dwarf mongoose .

features

Eastern dwarf mongooses reach a head body length of 20 to 27 centimeters, in addition there is a 15 to 18 centimeter long tail. Their weight is 220 to 350 grams. Their fur is predominantly gray in color, the face and belly are yellowish. Compared to their southern relatives, their fur is longer and more shaggy and less reddish, and their paws are black-brown. The front paws have long claws. The head is short, the ears are small and rounded. The molars are relatively strong.

Distribution and way of life

Distribution area of ​​the eastern dwarf mongoose

Eastern dwarf mongooses are native to eastern Africa . Their distribution area includes the south and southeast of Ethiopia , the south of Somalia and the north and east of Kenya . There have been unconfirmed reports of occurrences of this species from Djibouti and northern Tanzania . Their habitat are dry grasslands and scrubland, but not closed forests.

These animals are diurnal and probably live in groups. They use termite mounds and crevices as sleeping places. Otherwise, little is known about their way of life.

Danger

Although their area of ​​distribution is fragmented, no major threats are known. The IUCN assesses the total population as stable and lists the species as "not endangered" ( least concern ).

literature

  • JS Gilchrist, AP Jennings, G. Veron and P. Cavallini: Family Herpestidae (Mongooses). In: Don E. Wilson, Russell A. Mittermeier (eds.): Handbook of the Mammals of the World. Volume 1: Carnivores. Lynx Edicions, 2009, ISBN 978-84-96553-49-1 , pp. 262-329.

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