Egyptian Mongoose

Herpestes ichneumon

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Carnivora · Herpestidae

About

The Egyptian mongoose, also known as ichneumon, is a mongoose species native to the tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands of Africa and around the Mediterranean Basin in North Africa, the Middle East and the Iberian Peninsula. Whether it is introduced or native to the Iberian Peninsula is in some doubt. Because of its widespread occurrence, it is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Fun Fact

Egyptian mongooses were revered in ancient Egypt as sacred animals of the goddess Wadjet and were often mummified — they are one of the few animals depicted killing cobras in pharaonic tomb paintings.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Scrublands and wetlands

Diet

Omnivore

Lifespan

10-12 years

Threats

Agricultural Conversion
Urban Expansion

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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