On the Occurrence, Ecology and Risks of the Egyptian Mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon Linnaeus, 1758) in the Gaza Strip – Palestine

Abstract

The Egyptian Mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the most occurring carnivores in Palestine. The current study, which is a part of a big project dealing with wildlife (fauna and flora), aims at providing a modest background on the occurrence, ecology and risks of the Egyptian Mongoose in the Gaza Strip. Direct field observations and meetings and discussions with local people including wildlife hunters were major tools to satisfy the purpose of the study, which lasted 12 years (2007 - 2018). Visits to zoological gardens and animal trade markets were carried out as well. The Egyptian Mongoose occurs in most of the ecosystems of the Gaza Strip that are far away from the populated areas; especially the wadis, Al-Mawasi ecosystem, and the eastern belt of the Gaza Strip. A total number of 30 live and 11 dead specimens were recorded through field surveys. The Egyptian Mongoose was by far, the commonest zoo carnivore, where 33 specimens were encountered at Gaza zoological gardens. Two separate specimens were exhibited for sale at Al-Yarmouk Market in Gaza City. The Egyptian Mongoose is common in swampy habitats of the Gaza Strip, and its occurrence in the sand dune ecosystem seemed to be intermittent. The animal has a wide range of wild preys including small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians and insects prevailing within its home range. The animal is well known for its attacks to poultries, and as a result, it was frequently poisoned or killed by farmers and local people. Many minor threats were found to face the species in the Gaza Strip. Finally, the role of the Egyptian Mongoose in controlling the populations of environmental pests, including venomous snakes and commensal rodents should be valued, and as a result, the Palestinian wildlife should be protected and conserved in a sustainable fashion..