Ruddy Mongoose

The Ruddy Mongoose (Herpestes smithii) is a mongoose species native to hill forests in India and Sri Lanka.  The ruddy mongoose is very closely related to Indian Grey Mongoose but distinguished by its slightly larger size and a black-tipped tail extending for 2 to 3 inches at the distal end. The ruddy mongoose is mainly a forest-living animal, in contrast to the grey and small Indian mongooses, and prefers more secluded areas. Snakes, small lizards, rodents, and dead carcasses are among the ruddy mongoose's diet.