The banded mongoose populations have adapted a unique method of communal care in Uganda. The alpha female and the other females within the group have synchronized births. Females try to synchronize their birth with that of the alpha female to protect their young.
One big happy family
The alpha female might threaten the other females’ pups if she could distinguish her offspring from the others. By ensuring all pups are the same age and share the same den, the alpha female cannot distinguish between her offspring and the other females’ offspring. All 12 pups from different mothers live in the same den, where they are raised collectively without discrimination or favoritism.
Problems in Mongoose Paradise
This method of communal living comes with its fair share of problems. With over 40 mongooses sharing a single underground den, the risk of parasite infestation is high. These intelligent creatures employ a nomadic lifestyle to mitigate this threat. They constantly move to new homes, ensuring the safety and well-being of the entire group.
Mongoose Social Bonds
Once the group has settled into a new den and the area is deemed safe from predators, the entire group gathers food for the pups. The collective effort of each group member ensures that moving constantly is a smooth process for the entire group.
The incredible synchronization of mongoose mothers maximizes the chances of survival for young pups.
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