The banded mongoose (Mungos mungo) is a mongoose commonly found in the central and eastern parts of Africa.
The banded mongoose is a sturdy mongoose with a large head, small ears, short, muscular limbs and a long tail, almost as long as the rest of the body. Animals of wetter areas are larger and darker colored than animals of dryer regions. The abdominal part of the body is higher and rounder than the breast area. The rough fur is grayish brown, and there are several dark brown to black vertical bars across the back. The limbs and snout are darker, while the underparts are lighter than the rest of the body. Banded mongooses have long strong claws that allow them to dig in the soil.
An adult animal can reach a length of 30 to 45 cm and a weight of 1.5 to 2.25 kg. The tail is 15 to 30 cm long.
Mungos are one of the very rare species who can attack, fight and kill a cobra.
Taken through a fence in Schmiding, June 2007
Canon 5D with Sigma 120-300/2.8 @274mm
1/2000s f/4 ISO 400
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