The Indian grey mongoose is a small, agile carnivore common across South Asia. It is a valuable predator of rats and snakes and often lives close to people.
Interesting facts
- Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, in Rudyard Kipling’s story, is an Indian grey mongoose.
- Changes in its muscle receptors make it partly resistant to cobra venom.
- It kills snakes with a quick bite to the back of the head.
- Mongoose hair has been illegally used to make paintbrushes, leading to police raids in India.
- It is often seen dashing across roads and garden paths.
- Its grizzled grey coat gives it its name.
Behaviour
Mongooses are active by day, usually alone or in pairs. They are fast and alert and hunt among rocks, bushes and fields.
Breeding and young
Females give birth to two to four young in burrows, hollow trees or rock crevices, sometimes several times a year.
Threats and conservation
The species is common, but it is hunted for its hair and meat and killed on roads.
Where to see it
- Gardens, parks and farmland across India and Sri Lanka
- Ranthambore National Park, India
- Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur, India
- Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
