Chester Zoo Introduces Adorable

Dwarf Mongoose Pups

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: May 23, 2020 6:15 pm

Photo Credit: Chester Zoo

Some of the cutest baby animals have been born at Chester Zoo. Three baby dwarf mongooses have joined the family.

Born several weeks ago keepers have only just got their first glimpse of the infants. Their presence was initially given away by “little squeaks” coming from within the burrow. It will still be a few weeks before keepers can discover if their babies are boys or girls.

Team leader Dave White described them, “The pups are already playful but will soon build in confidence and, with dwarf mongooses being very curious and adventurous by nature, will certainly keep the group on their tiny toes.”

They join the mob at Chester Zoo which numbers 7 members including mum, Hope and dad, Cooper.

Photo Credit: Chester Zoo

These babies are not just dwarf in name. Currently they measure about 12cm (4.7in) and as adults they won’t be much bigger measuring just 30cm (11.8in). Their tiny size makes them Africa’s smallest carnivore.“

Dwarf mongooses are really sociable animals and so the whole group play a part in helping to look after the new triplets,” explained White.

“As well as mum, some of the other females even start producing milk for them to ensure they’re well fed. They work together in teams to care for the youngsters, often deploying a look out to alert the group to any danger while the babies are feeding,” he continued.

Photo Credit: Chester Zoo

The dwarf mongoose is found throughout Eastern and Southern Africa. They live in woodlands, grasslands and rocky outcrops.

These dwarf mongoose continue the tradition of this species being housed at Chester Zoo. They have held dwarf mongoose for 45 years. These infants could be expected to live for up to 10 years.

Learn more about Chester Zoo on their website – Chester Zoo Website