Small Indian mongoose
herpestes auropunctatuS
PRESENTATION OF THE SPECIES
Scientific Name: Herpestes auropunctatus
Origin: South Asia (India, Sri Lanka)
Found in the West Indies: Guadeloupe, Martinique, Haiti, Dominican Republic
Size: 30 to 40 cm long (without tail)
Weight: 0.6 to 1.5 kg
Diet: Opportunistic carnivore (small vertebrates, eggs, insects)
A voluntary introduction to the Antilles
The small Indian mongoose was introduced to several Caribbean islands in the late 19th century to control the proliferation of rats in sugarcane plantations. However, this introduction proved catastrophic for local biodiversity.
In the absence of natural predators, the mongoose rapidly multiplied and had a devastating impact on island wildlife, particularly small reptiles, amphibians, and ground-nesting birds.
Ecological impacts and threats to biodiversity
The arrival of the mongoose in the West Indies has led to several ecological imbalances:
Predation on local species:
- Direct threat to endemic lizards and iguanas, including some rare and protected species.
- Attacks ground-nesting birds, eating their eggs and chicks.
- Also attacks certain native amphibians and small mammals.
Health risk:
Potential vector of leptospirosis, a disease transmissible to humans and other animals.
Effect on ecosystems:
Its introduction has altered the dynamics of predators and prey, endangering endemic species that have not developed defenses against this new enemy.
Studies and monitoring within the framework of the CIMBA project
The CIMBA project aims to better understand the distribution and impact of the mongoose through several actions:
- Camera trapping to identify its presence in protected areas.
- Diet analysis to assess the most affected local species.
- Ecological modeling to map the most affected areas.
- Evaluation of control methods to limit its proliferation.
These studies will enable the implementation of appropriate strategies to reduce its impact and protect local biodiversity.