“I have the reflexes of a cat and the speed of a mongoose, GO AHEAD and throw that spear, I DARE YA!” I am in a generous mood today so I am going to give 10 Bonus Wild Fact Points to the person that correctly guesses what movie that quote is from! I thought of that quote while thinking about today’s Wild Fact since I wanted to write about the speed of a mongoose!

There are about thirty different species of mongoose which can mostly be found in Africa. Generally these little creatures are terrestrial but some species can be semi-aquatic while others may prefer the comfort of the tree tops. The terrestrial mongooses are a burrowing animal that feeds on a variety of animals such as birds, rodents, insects, frogs, worms, etc. Impressively the Indian mongoose is able to kill and consume venomous snakes. How is it possible that this little “weasel-like” animal can take out a cobra? When the mongoose finds itself in a battle with a cobra it will employ the famous “rope-a-dope” strategy.  Basically, it will taunt and eventually humiliate the snake as it is able to easily dodge any of the snakes deadly strikes.  Once the snake tires himself out then the mongoose will catch it by the back of the neck and consume the poisonous snake.

Although the mongoose is swift and cunning they still need to rely on each other in order to survive larger predators. While the mongooses are out enjoying the day they may employ a guard mongoose or two that will warn the group if a predator is coming.  Once the alarm is sounded the mongooses will run and hide in the nearest hole.  So the next time you are looking for a guard dog, maybe you should consider getting a guard mongoose.  I am just kidding as introducing these animals can cause some major issues to the local flora and fauna.

Unfortunately, habitat destruction is becoming an issue and the mongoose population may be in jeopardy.  No matter how great they are at protecting themselves from predators they are completely helpless while there habitat is being destroyed.

All right folks! I am out of here but have yourselves a great day and I look forward to chatting with you tomorrow.