Distribution and Habitat of Indian Grey Mongoose
The Indian grey mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii) is a widely distributed species that is found in various countries across South Asia and the Middle East. It is known to occur in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
In Saudi Arabia, the Indian grey mongoose has been reported in various regions, including the central and eastern parts of the country. It is typically found in areas with suitable habitat, such as dry grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural fields. The mongoose is adaptable and can thrive in both rural and urban environments.
Similarly, in Kuwait and Bahrain, the Indian grey mongoose has been observed in diverse habitats, including desert areas, coastal regions, and urban landscapes. It is known to take advantage of human-altered environments, such as gardens and parks, where it can find food and shelter.
Moving eastward, the mongoose is also found in Iran and Afghanistan. In Iran, it has been recorded in different provinces, such as Kerman, Sistan and Baluchestan, and Hormozgan. The species is known to inhabit a range of habitats, including deserts, semi-deserts, and mountainous regions. In Afghanistan, the Indian grey mongoose has been reported in various parts of the country, including Kabul, Herat, and Kandahar. It is known to occur in both rural and urban areas, adapting to the available resources.
Continuing further east, the mongoose has a significant presence in Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. In Pakistan, it is found in different provinces, including Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan. The mongoose can be found in a wide range of habitats in Pakistan, including forests, grasslands, agricultural areas, and urban spaces.
In India, the Indian grey mongoose is widely distributed across the country, from the northern regions to the southern peninsular areas. It is known to inhabit diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, agricultural fields, and even urban areas. The mongoose is often seen near human settlements, where it can scavenge for food and seek shelter.
Similarly, the mongoose is found in Nepal, where it occurs in various habitats, such as forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. It is known to adapt to different environmental conditions, including both high-altitude regions and lowland areas.
In Sri Lanka, the Indian grey mongoose is present throughout the country, ranging from coastal areas to inland forests. It is known to inhabit a variety of habitats, including wetlands, agricultural fields, and human settlements. The mongoose plays an important ecological role in controlling rodent populations in agricultural areas.
Lastly, the Indian grey mongoose has been recorded in Bangladesh, where it occurs in different regions, including the Sundarbans mangrove forest. It is known to inhabit a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields. The mongoose is often encountered near water bodies, as it is an adept swimmer and can hunt for aquatic prey.
The Indian grey mongoose is a highly adaptable species that can thrive in various habitats across its range. Its ability to exploit different environments, including both natural and human-altered landscapes, has contributed to its widespread distribution in South Asia and the Middle East.