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human settlements. It is a true omnivore that eats anything edible:
invertebrates, fish, frogs, reptiles, small rodents and birds; it regularly
scavenges and takes some plant food. It can become a pest when
individuals take to killing poultry. These mongooses are mainly
solitary animals, but pairs and family parties may also be observed,
normally during daylight hours. Nothing is known about breeding in
the region, but in Pakistan they seem to breed throughout the year.
Distribution and Status Animals in Arabia were probably introduced
from Iran, for example on the island of Bahrain, Kuwait and the Saudi
Arabian Persian Gulf ports. Individuals are occasionally killed in the
UAE, and it is known that these animals are brought in by sailors
and labourers. They are not as widespread in Iran as the Small Indian
Mongoose. The exact range is not well known, although this species
seldom ventures far from the coast. It occurs widely in India and
eastwards.
Conservation Areas None known.
MUSTELIDS
LEAST WEASEL Mustela nivalis
Identification This tiny aggressive hunter is the smallest carnivore
in the region, with a very wide distribution. An elongated, slim,
cylindrical body with a short tail (4–6 cm) and short legs distinguishes
it from any other species in the region. The coat is short and dense,
with upperparts uniform reddish-brown and underparts creamy-
white. The upper surfaces of the front feet are white; the hind feet
are partially white. In high-altitude areas of Iran, Turkey and possibly