Anatomy: The mongoose is a sleek, furry animal that ranges in size from about 8 to 25 inches (20-64 cm) long, plus a tail which is 6 to 21 inches (15-53 cm) long. It has a tapered snout, sharp teeth, short feet, and a long tail. It has sharp claws, which it uses to dig burrows, to scratch the ground for insects to eat, and to catch prey.

Diet: The mongoose eats small animals, like snakes, rodents, frogs, and insects. Some mongooses also eat eggs, fruit, seeds, and nuts.

Classification: Class Mammalia (mammals), Order Carnivora.