Malagasy narrow-striped mongoose  (Mungotictis decemlineata)

Description

The Malagasy narrow-striped mongoose is a small carnivore with dense, grizzled, brownish-grey fur and a bushy, brush-like tail. Eight to twelve narrow, reddish-brown to dark brown stripes run along the back and sides of the body, from the shoulders to the base of the tail, giving the species its common name (2) (3) (4) (5). The underparts are a paler beige colour (2) (3), and there may be orange tinges around the legs (5). The tail is similar in colour to the upper body, but may be more grey, and flecked with lighter and darker areas (2). The muzzle is fairly pointed and the ears are rounded and quite prominent. The legs are quite delicate, and the toes, which bear longish claws, are partially webbed and have hairless soles (2) (3) (4).

Two subspecies of Malagasy narrow-striped mongoose are recognised, with Mungotictis decemlineata lineata being darker, with a paler tail and more pronounced stripes, than Mungotictis decemlineata decemlineata (2) (5). However, M. d. lineata has only been described from two specimens, and its status as a subspecies is difficult to confirm (5).

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