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The Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) is considered a generalist and opportunistic predator whose European distribution is restricted to Iberia. However, all the previous studies on the Egyptian mongoose's diet in the Iberian Peninsula have been performed in Portugal and Doñana National Park (southwestern Spain), covering a small region of the species' current distribution. To improve the knowledge on the trophic ecology of the species, we estimated the feeding habits of the Egyptian mongoose in central Spain, its north-eastern range edge. Our study was based on the analysis of (1) scats (n = 251) and (2) stomach contents (n = 32); samples were collected between 2018 and 2022. We calculated the relative frequency of occurrence (%RFO) and the percentage consumed biomass (%CB) for 12 food groups across central Spain and we assessed site-seasonal variations in diet composition in three study areas. We also estimated rabbit densities in the three study areas to assess the effect of rabbit abundance on mongoose diets. Overall, our results showed that European rabbits were the group with highest %CB (30.7%) in the diet of the Egyptian mongoose, followed by reptiles (19.9%) and small mammals (19.9%). In the intensively studied areas, the %CB of rabbits was the highest in the area with the highest abundance of this prey, whereas reptiles had the highest %CB in the area with the lowest availability of rabbits. Diet diversity (Shannon index) varied between 1.73 and 2.47 in those areas and was inversely related to the availability of rabbits. Our results confirm the dietary flexibility of this predator that adapts its diet to the relative availability of different prey species in different habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract The partition of the ecological niche can enhance the coexistence of predators due to differences in how they exploit three main resources: food, space, and time, the latter being an axis that often remains unexplored. We studied niche segregation in a Mediterranean mesocarnivore community composed by Vulpes vulpes, Genetta genetta, Meles meles, and Herpestes ichneumon, addressing simultaneously different niche axes: the temporal, trophic, and spatial axes. We assessed temporal segregation between mesopredators and prey and between potential competitors, using camera trap data between 2018 and 2020 in a Mediterranean landscape in Southern Spain. We deployed camera traps in 35 stations in three sites with varying vegetation cover within Doñana National Park. We further examined the spatial overlap in activity centers and trophic preferences between potential competitors using diet information from studies performed in the study area. We found an overall temporal segregation between trophic generalist species, with species showing higher temporal overlap differing in their trophic preferences and/or showing limited spatial overlap. Furthermore, we observed an overall high overlap between the activity patterns of predators and their major prey in the area (the common genet vs. small mammals and the red fox vs. European rabbit). Our study suggests that coexistence of the different species that compose the mesocarnivore assemblage in Mediterranean landscapes can be facilitated by subtle differences along the three main niche axes, with temporal segregation being a most pronounced mechanism. Our findings reinforce the idea that the coexistence mechanisms underlying community structure are multidimensional.

1. The partition of the ecological niche can enhance the coexistence of predators due to differences in how they exploit three main resources: food, space, and time, the latter being an axis that often remains unexplored. 2. We studied niche segregation in a Mediterranean mesocarnivore community composed by Vulpes vulpes, Genetta genetta, Meles meles, and Herpestes ichneumon, addressing simultaneously different niche axes: the temporal, trophic, and spatial axes. 3. We assessed temporal segregation between mesopredators and prey and between potential competitors, using camera trap data between 2018 and 2020 in a Mediterranean landscape in Southern Spain. We deployed camera traps in 35 stations in three sites with varying vegetation cover within Doñana National Park. We further examined the spatial overlap in activity centers and trophic preferences between potential competitors using diet information from studies performed in the study area. 4. We found an overall temporal segregation between trophic generalist species, with species showing higher temporal overlap differing in their trophic preferences and/or showing limited spatial overlap. Furthermore, we observed an overall high overlap between the activity patterns of predators and their major prey in the area (the common genet vs. small mammals and the red fox vs. European rabbit). 5. Our study suggests that coexistence of the different species that compose the mesocarnivore assemblage in Mediterranean landscapes can be facilitated by subtle differences along the three main niche axes, with temporal segregation being a most pronounced mechanism. Our findings reinforce the idea that the coexistence mechanisms underlying community structure are multidimensional. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowing the distribution of expanding carnivore species is paramount for identifying and addressing potential human–wildlife conflicts. Occupancy models are useful tools to estimate the distribution and the probability of detection of wildlife species. In this study, we used these models with an empirical dataset to compare different survey methods and their combinations in order to optimize the estimated distribution in central Iberian Peninsula of the Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon), the only Herpestidae species occurring in Europe. In particular, we aimed to identify the most cost‐effective (most accurate, with the lowest bias and cost) method or combination of methods. Sign surveys along transects on foot, hair‐traps (baited and unbaited) and camera‐traps were used as detection methods. We replicated these methods in 10 sampling units within four study zones in which the species was known to occur. We employed occupancy models to estimate the detection probability for each method in each zone, using covariates exclusively for detection probability, and made combinations of all methods. Camera‐trapping was the most precise and least biased single method, followed by transects on foot. In contrast, both baited and unbaited hair‐traps produced biased estimates of occupancy. However, camera‐traps was the most costly method, whereas single unbaited hair‐traps had the lowest cost. Our results demonstrate that the combination of several methods provides more precise and unbiased estimates of occupancy than those obtained from single methods. Even so, a biased method could contribute to improve the estimates if combined with other unbiased and precise methods. We recommend considering not only the precision and bias, but also the cost and effort required by each method to achieve the most cost‐effective results in distribution studies of carnivore species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose, Herpestes ichneumon, is the only extant mongoose in Europe, with populations still distributed in Africa and the Middle East. In this study, we present the first mitochondrial genome sequence of Herpestes ichneumon and we investigate its phylogenetic position within Feliformia suborder. The resultant mitogenome sequence is 16,775 bps, composed of a conserved set of 37 genes containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region. Our results represent a valuable resource for further phylogeographical studies.

The Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) is a carnivore in expansion on the western limits of Europe, where its reproductive ecology is unknown. In this study, we weighed and measured the gonads of 507 wild‐caught mongooses ranging its geographical distribution and all seasons of the year. Based on the variation in gonad weight, we determined periods of reproductive activity for females (December–June) and males (throughout the year), with both sexes showing a peak in gonad weight during February. We also identified periods of lactation (March‐August, n = 10), gestation (December–July, n = 20) and mean litter size (1–4 offspring, 2.75 ± 0.79, n = 20). Next, we constructed two separate models to explain the variation in ovarian and testicular weight, using age cohort, season and region, spleen weight, body condition and the environmental variables habitat, river network and Egyptian mongoose density as predictors. Ovarian weight was influenced by season and spleen weight. Females with heavier ovaries were found in spring and simultaneously exhibited heavier spleens. Testicular weight was influenced by season, spleen weight and age, as well as several environmental variables. Males with lower spleen weight exhibited heavier testes, indicating a male‐specific negative association between reproductive and immune activity. Overall, the results of this study refine our knowledge on Egyptian mongoose reproductive ecology. They indicate that reproduction timing is determined by females, whose breeding is seasonal but who are unaffected by the set of environmental variables we tested, as opposed to males, who are influenced by these environmental conditions and seem to be reproductively active year round. These results also support a negative reproduction‐immunity trade‐off in males, that is independent of body condition and absent in females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon L.) is a medium-size carnivore widely distributed in Africa and in a small part of southern Europe, the Iberian Peninsula, where mongoose populations have recently expanded. The mongoose is relatively easily detectable because of its diurnal habits and because it is the only species of Herpestidae occurring in the Iberian Peninsula. Therefore, its distribution could be monitored through citizen science. In this sense, information provided by stakeholders that make frequent use of natural environments, including hunters, landowners, or wildlife rangers, would be potentially very valuable. Nevertheless, the accuracy of the information provided by these stakeholders as regards mongoose occurrence has never been tested. To do so, we compared mongoose occurrences gathered through field transects (i.e., 2-km walking surveys in which direct observations and indirect signs were recorded) carried out in 218 Andalusian municipalities during 2010–2015 with those obtained through questionnaires conducted in 2016 to hunters (n = 251), landowners (n = 116), and wildlife rangers (n = 133). We did not find any significant difference between mongoose distribution estimated by the reference method (i.e., field surveys) and by questionnaire to wildlife rangers. In contrast, mongoose occurrences reported by hunters and landowners were significantly correlated among them, but not with those collected in field transects (nor with those provided by the rangers). This suggests that a participatory network for monitoring mongoose distribution could rely on the information provided by wildlife rangers. Previous studies showed that hunters can provide useful information from less accessible areas like private estates where official data are not collected. In this sense, our results suggest that further effort is needed to incorporate hunters and landowners in a participatory network to monitor mongoose distribution, and this could include collaborative actions to promote their involvement in addition to increasing their skills in mongoose detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild mammals are susceptible to infection by Leishmania parasites. Although canine leishmaniasis is widely distributed in mainland Portugal, the sylvatic cycle of the parasite remains poorly understood. In this study, the occurrence of L. infantum in wild carnivores from Portugal was assessed by molecular screening of 132 hunted or accidentally road-killed animals. Spleen samples from Egyptian mongoose, red fox, stone marten, common genet and European badger were tested by amplification of Leishmania kinetoplastid DNA and ITS1. Five egyptian mongoose were confirmed Leishmania DNA-positive by kDNA-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis of a kDNA amplicon sequence clustered the strain with L. infantum sequences from Portugal. These results may suggest that L. infantum strains circulating in wild animals are genetically related with strains from more humanized settings. Exposure of wild carnivores to Leishmania infantum emphasizes the need of systematic studies to clarify the role of several taxa in the eco-epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Portugal, particularly in areas of carnivore species synanthropy and wherein disease control in the domestic population is inefficient or insufficient. Image 1 • Leishmania sp. occurrence in wild carnivores (n = 132) from Portugal was assessed by PCR. • Egyptian mongoose, red fox, stone marten, common genet and European badger were tested. • Five Egyptian mongoose were confirmed Leishmania positive by kDNA-PCR. • The 402-nt long sequence of mongoose kDNA amplicon displayed high similarity (>97,51%) with L. infantum from dogs and humans. • Phylogenetic analysis by Maximum Likelihood clustered wild mongoose strain with urban L. infantum from Portugal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon Linnaeus, 1758) is a medium-sized carnivore that experienced remarkable geographic expansion over the last 3 decades in the Iberian Peninsula. In this study, we investigated the association of species-related and abiotic factors with spleen weight (as a proxy for immunocompetence) in the species. We assessed the relationship of body condition, sex, age, season, and environmental conditions with spleen weight established for 508 hunted specimens. Our results indicate that the effects of sex and season outweigh those of all other variables, including body condition. Spleen weight is higher in males than in females, and heavier spleens are more likely to be found in spring, coinciding with the highest period of investment in reproduction due to mating, gestation, birth, and lactation. Coupled with the absence of an effect of body condition, our findings suggest that spleen weight variation in this species is mostly influenced by life-history traits linked to reproduction, rather than overall energy availability, winter immunoenhancement, or energy partitioning effects, and prompt further research focusing on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose, Herpestes ichneumon, is the only extant mongoose in Europe, with populations still distributed in Africa and the Middle East. In this study, we present the first mitochondrial genome sequence of Herpestes ichneumon and we investigate its phylogenetic position within Feliformia suborder. The resultant mitogenome sequence is 16,775 bps, composed of a conserved set of 37 genes containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region. Our results represent a valuable resource for further phylogeographical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three- dimensional (3D) reconstruction obtained by using multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) images have widely been used in anatomical studies. Thorax is one of the most important body cavities necessary for the protection of lungs and heart in mammals. Two adult mongooses (1 male, 1 female) obtained from traffic accidents were used in this study. The images obtained from MDCT were stacked and 3D reconstruction of thorax was performed by overlaying images using a 3D modeling software (Mimics 13.1). Some measurements of thoracic cavity, lungs and sternum were taken from the reconstructive images of mongoose and indexes were calculated from these measurements. The morphometric parameters were recorded for both sexes. From the study, it could be concluded that the thoracic cavity, lungs and sternum imagings and findings revealed by 3D modeling techniques can be utilized for anatomical training of wild animals. This study is expected to help in the diagnosis and treatment of thorax diseases in wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current geographical distribution of the Egyptian Mongoose or Large Grey Mongoose, Herpestes ichneumon (Linnaeus, 1758), in South Africa is limited to the south-eastern coastal and eastern sections of the country. One recent sighting in the central part of the country suggested a wider geographical distribution. In this study, we report on confirmed sightings of the Egyptian Mongoose on consecutive years in the central part (at Sasol's Synfuels Plant in Secunda) of the country. Our sightings thus expand the distribution of the Egyptian Mongoose in South Africa to include some sections of the central to eastern part of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon Linnaeus, 1758) is an expanding species, whose presence in Europe is restricted to its western extreme. Mongooses are generalist and opportunistic carnivores which is reflected by their anatomical features and nutritional preferences. With the purpose to fully characterize mongoose diet and ascertain if game species overlap within the guild of consumed food items, a total of 122 stomach contents of animals resulting from hunting activities and accidental road kills from seven provinces of mainland Portugal were identified. In order to identify which factors influence the nutritional requirements and food preferences of the Egyptian mongoose, several individual parameters (body condition, spleen weight, age class, fat levels and sex) were related with bio-ecologic features, as seasonality, region, habitat primary productivity, climate, human disturbance and environmental conditions. The results suggested that the diet of the Egyptian mongoose is mainly composed of mammals. Mammals and amphibians were predominant in males’ stomach contents, while reptiles and invertebrates overlapped other food categories in females’ diet. Diet (food categories) variations across age groups were registered. The consumption of prey also varied throughout the year, according to availability and mongoose energy uptake needs, with a higher consumption of more energetic prey during the breeding season. Mongooses consumed more mammals and reptiles in areas with higher primary productivity. Our data thus suggest that the consumption of reptiles, predominantly by females, results in heavier spleens, possibly driving to greater investment in immunity and better animal performance during the breeding period. In a general way, the obtained results suggest that mongooses do not exclusively focus their diet on game species although this does not necessarily mean a low impact of this carnivore on game species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conflicts associated with the return of flagship species and the consequences of exotic species invasion have been extensively assessed, but there is a lack of information about conflicts derived from the colonization of common native species. The present study aims to assess the perception of different profiles of stakeholders regarding the spread of a native medium-sized mammal found in Spain: the case of the Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon L.), which can compromise the conservation of rabbit and red-legged partridge and the economic activity of rural areas. Using a sample of 116 landowners and 251 hunters and multiple bounded uncertainty choice data, we analyzed the stakeholders' perception of predators, the stakeholders' preferences of different management measures for predator control, and the role of local people for controlling the Egyptian mongoose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying the environmental features affecting gene flow across a species range is of extreme importance for conservation planning. We investigated the genetic structure of the Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) in Western Iberian Peninsula by analyzing the correlations between genetic distances and landscape resistance models. We evaluated several functional relationships between elevation, vegetation cover, temperature, and genetic differentiation under the original and reciprocal causal modelling approaches. Additionally, we assessed evidence of isolation-by-distance (IBD) in the mongoose population. Original causal modelling identified IBD as the best model explaining genetic patterns in the mongoose population. By contrast, reciprocal causal modelling supported high shrub cover at middle elevations as the best model explaining species gene flow. The results from reciprocal causal modelling demonstrate that the Egyptian mongoose is dependent of ecosystems dominated by Mediterranean shrub cover. Recent land-use changes related to rural abandonment promoted the growth of shrub areas, especially at middle elevations, facilitating genetic connectivity in the mongoose population in those areas, where anthropogenic activities are less intense. The present study should be considered as a model for landscape genetics studies of Mediterranean carnivores in the Iberian range with the aim of better understanding how recent land-use changes affect a broad guild of species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated 30 skulls of the grey mongoose divided into three age-groups (6 pups, 10 juveniles and 14 adults) for skull shape variability determination. Specific geometric shapes were drawn from defined points. Angular geometric measurements of shapes derived from rostro-dorsal and rostro-lateral parts of the skull included; orbital angles (with and without the mandible), comprising of viscero-cranium, skull and orbital index that was calculated to evaluate the correlations, if any, with angles measured. It was observed that orbital height and width became higher with age; there was stronger correlation in this regard between pups and juveniles compared with juveniles and adults. There is a reduction (narrowing) in BrEcEc, BrEcN, EcPEc, EcEnN and NwNNw angles with concomitant enlargement of BrEcP, BrEcN, EcNEc, EnNEn, EcNNw and EnNP with age. The decline in the skull index shows a decrease in rate of skull width growth relative to rostro-facial length and demonstrates non-proportionality to zygoma bowing. Significantly varied orbital parameters include the inter-canthii distance and implications of certain significant variables observed in some geometric orbital measurements of the tropical mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon). The survey hypothesizes the observations follow typical carnivoran phylogenic affinity, differentiates this species from similar herpestid versions and is an estimation of functional morphology with respect to bite size. It is further suggested to contribute to visual acuity in timing of bite delivery as well an adaptation in prey summarisation. This study will serve as baseline information in herpestid cranial investigations. Such facial features are useful in population studies, species identification, eco-migrant species surveillance and species ontogenic evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon ) is a carnivore game species in Portugal, whose fundamental ecology remains to be fully explored. For instance, the physical features of this species have not yet been studied through a continuous wide area, as an entire country. In this work, the averages of eight biometric parameters and body mass of both genders were determined for 559 free-ranging animals from four age classes that were established by dental growth. Sexual dimorphism in body size of adult Egyptian mongoose is reported for the first time in the Portuguese territory, with males being larger than females. Differences across regions are also evidenced, with animals from south of Tagus River being larger than those from the north. Comparison with similar data available from other mongoose populations of the Mediterranean basin suggests that adult specimens from Portugal are less heavy than animals from Doñana in Spain and Israel, while males appear to be larger in body length. Statistically significant differences encountered among gender, age and region, suggest that sexual selection, prey availability, human constrains and different habitat use patterns regulate the body size of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describing the genetic patterns and the demographic history of expanding species is essential for providing insights into the processes linked with range dynamics. We analysed the mitochondrial diversity of the Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon ) across the Iberian Peninsula, where the species is currently expanding north-west. A total of 242 individuals were analysed, together with nine representatives from the North African dispersal source. Haplotype segregation and strong differentiation between Iberian and North African populations confirmed the long-term presence of the species in the Iberian Peninsula. The distribution of mitochondrial diversity fitted the pattern of a historically diversified population in southern Iberia, from which the recent dispersals into northern areas may have occurred. Higher levels of haplotype and nucleotide diversities in the northern areas, together with the heterogeneous distribution of pairwise population differentiations and the weak signal for isolation-by-distance suggest the existence of long-dispersal migrants across the Iberian Peninsula. Sudden and spatial expansion scenarios of H. ichneumon in the Iberian Peninsula were supported by mismatch analysis and marginally supported by neutrality tests. However, the precise time of occurrence of the detected expansion remains unclear. Future studies should incorporate additional markers in order to further clarify the population dynamics of the Egyptian mongoose in its Iberian range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species range-limits are influenced by a combination of several factors. In our study we aimed to unveil the drivers underlying the expansion of the Egyptian mongoose in Portugal, a carnivore that was confined to southern Portugal and largely increased its range during the last three decades. We evaluated the expansion of the species in three periods (1980-1990, 1990-2000 and 2000-2010), by projecting the presence/absence data of the species in each temporal range and proposed four hypotheses to explain this sudden expansion associated to changes in the barrier effects of human infrastructure and topographic features, and in the availability of suitable areas due to climate change or land use. An exploratory analysis was made using Spearman rank correlation, followed by a hierarchical partitioning analysis to select uncorrelated potential explanatory variables associated with the different hypotheses. We then ran Generalized Linear Models (GLM) for every period for each hypothesis and for every combination of hypotheses. Our main findings suggest that dynamic transitions of land-use coupled with temperature and rainfall variations over the decades are the main drivers promoting the mongoose expansion. The geographic barriers and the human infrastructures functioned as barriers for mongoose expansion and have shaped its distribution. The expansion of the Egyptian mongoose across the Portuguese territory was due to a variety of factors. Our results suggest a rapid shift in species range in response to land-use and climate changes, underlining the close link between species ranges and a changing environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Egyptian mongoose is the only member of the family Herpestidae in Turkey. The species is distributed mainly in Africa, and Turkey constitutes the northernmost distribution margin of the species. Thus far, a natural specimen's karyotype from an area with a known locality for H. ichneumon has not been studied. The karyotype of a male specimen from Hatay was determined to be 2n = 43, NF = 71, NFa = 66. The X1 and X2 chromosomes were middle-sized metacentric, and the Y chromosome was middle-sized telocentric. The external and skull measurements of the Adana-Yumurtalık and Hatay specimens are given here in a table. The Egyptian mongoose was distributed in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions before the 1970s. However, during the last 30 years, the distribution of H. ichneumon has been recorded only in the Hatay region, mostly because of the lack of detailed distribution studies. We recorded the species from Hatay, Osmaniye, Adana, and Mersin, in the area between Hatay and Silifke. The species seems to be limited in areas below an altitude of 450 m in the Mersin, Adana, and Hatay regions. H. ichneumon is distributed mostly in reed, bush, and scrub areas, as well as in agricultural lands with residential areas. Because of the large distributional decrease of the species, it is necessary to develop their populations by rescuing H. ichneumon from the risks mentioned below by starting a tracking program immediately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to recent phylogeographical evidence, the common genet ( Genetta genetta) and the Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon) have dissimilar dispersal histories from Maghreb to south-western Europe. Through comparative ecological niche modelling based on >1100 occurrences, we assessed whether the niche dynamics (i.e. niche shift versus conservatism) of the two species in their European ranges reflected DNA-based demographic scenarios. Sensitivity analyses and projections of climatic niche models from the species' native ranges ( Africa and Middle East) to Europe yielded support for (1) partial climatic niche shift in the northern European range of the common genet and (2) climatic niche conservatism in the Egyptian mongoose. Our results were consistent with demographic scenarios that predicted multiple introductions and demographic expansion in the common genet and long-term, stable historical demography in the Egyptian mongoose. Our models further predicted a range expansion of the common genet in north-western France and Italy, and progression of the Egyptian mongoose into Europe from the Near East. Overall, our study suggested a scenario of different niche dynamics in Europe for these two species of African carnivores, supporting the view that historical factors such as dispersal and demographic history may shape niche dynamics and thus distribution potential in colonized ranges. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2015, 114, 737-751. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation in the Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon), a terrestrial predator species with an essential role in the Iberian ecosystems food chain. Differences between males and females and the effect of age in mercury body burdens were studied, as well as the geographical distribution of mercury in tissues of the studied species. Total mercury (T-Hg) was determined in muscle, liver, lungs, heart, spleen, kidneys, blood, brain, fat and pelage of the Egyptian mongoose from 14 locations, encompassing the distribution range of the element in the species. In order to study differences between ages, males and females, 20 individuals from one sampling location were analysed. Total mercury concentrations ranged between 0.01 and 13 μg g (dry weight (dw)) and followed the order from the least to the most contaminated: fat < brain < lungs < heart < spleen < muscle < kidneys < liver < pelage < blood. Differences between males and females were only significant for muscle and pelage mercury levels, suggesting uptake rates and metabolic processes to be similar between genders. Despite a similar accumulation pattern with age between males and females, differences between ages were significant only for females, as a result of a higher range of male mercury body burdens. Organic mercury (O-Hg) was analysed in muscle and liver, and its percentage ranged from 83 to 96 %, reflecting the high trophic level of the species. None of the observed mercury levels reached the lethal or toxic values established for terrestrial predators (20 to 100 μg g wet weight), suggesting that despite its predatory position in terrestrial food webs, the risk of mercury associated toxicity is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exposure of wild carnivores to viral pathogens, with emphasis on parvovirus (CPV/FPLV), was assessed based on the molecular screening of tissue samples from 128 hunted or accidentally road-killed animals collected in Portugal from 2008 to 2011, including Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon, n = 99), red fox (Vulpes vulpes, n = 19), stone marten (Martes foina, n = 3), common genet (Genetta genetta, n = 3) and Eurasian badger (Meles meles, n = 4). A high prevalence of parvovirus DNA (63%) was detected among all surveyed species, particularly in mongooses (58%) and red foxes (79%), along with the presence of CPV/FPLV circulating antibodies that were identified in 90% of a subset of parvovirus-DNA positive samples. Most specimens were extensively autolysed, restricting macro and microscopic investigations for lesion evaluation. Whenever possible to examine, signs of active disease were not present, supporting the hypothesis that the parvovirus vp2 gene fragments detected by real-time PCR possibly correspond to viral DNA reminiscent from previous infections. The molecular characterization of viruses, based on the analysis of the complete or partial sequence of the vp2 gene, allowed typifying three viral strains of mongoose and four red fox’s as feline panleukopenia virus (FPLV) and one stone marten’s as newCPV-2b type. The genetic similarity found between the FPLV viruses from free-ranging and captive wild species originated in Portugal and publicly available comparable sequences, suggests a closer genetic relatedness among FPLV circulating in Portugal. Although the clinical and epidemiological significance of infection could not be established, this study evidences that exposure of sympatric wild carnivores to parvovirus is common and geographically widespread, potentially carrying a risk to susceptible populations at the wildlife-domestic interface and to threatened species, such as the wildcat (Felis silvestris) and the critically endangered Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We describe new finds of Herpestes ichneumon (Egyptian mongoose) from an archaeological context in Portugal, directly 14C dated to c. 800 AD. This is at least two centuries older than a previously reported find of this species from Andalusia (southern Spain; ). Our finding provides further support to the hypothesis that the Muslims introduced this animal to the Iberian Peninsula. In particular, we suggest that Berber settlers might have brought it some time during the Umayyad conquest of Iberia or with the establishment of the Emirate of Córdoba. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Natural processes of colonization and human-mediated introductions have shaped current patterns of biodiversity in the Mediterranean Basin. We use a comparative phylogeographic approach to investigate the genetic structure of Herpestes ichneumon and Genetta genetta (Carnivora) across the Strait of Gibraltar, and test for their supposedly contemporaneous introduction into Iberia. Mediterranean Basin and Africa. We sequenced two mitochondrial fragments (cytochrome b and control region) of 91 ( H. ichneumon) and 185 ( G. genetta) individuals, including the sole archaeological record of G. genetta in Iberia, dating from the Muslim occupation. We used phylogenetic and tokogenetic methods, summary statistics, neutrality tests, geographic-genetic pairwise comparisons and coalescent estimates to explore the history of the two species in the Mediterranean Basin. In North Africa, an autochthonous (Clade I) and a western African mtDNA clade, coalescing in the Middle to Late Pleistocene, co-occurred in both species. Only Clade I was present in Europe. In H. ichneumon, the European pool showed deep coalescence (median = 335 kyr) and high genetic differentiation and diversity compared with its North African counterpart, suggesting long-term stability of female effective population size. In sharp contrast, G. genetta in Europe exhibited lower genetic diversity, weak differentiation with North Africa and recent demographic expansion; however, Andalusia and Catalonia (Spain) showed distinctly higher genetic diversity, and the archaeological specimen had the predominant European haplotype. The co-occurrence of autochthonous and sub-Saharan lineages in North Africa (1) supports a new, emerging biogeographic scenario in North Africa, and (2) suggests a connection through the Sahara, possibly from the Middle Pleistocene onwards. Our results refute the idea that H. ichneumon was introduced into Europe contemporaneously with G. genetta. Instead, they support a scenario of sweepstake dispersal during Late Pleistocene sea-level fluctuations, followed by long-term in situ evolution throughout the last glaciation cycles. Genetta genetta appears to have undergone a recent spread from at least two independent introduction 'hotspots' in Catalonia and Andalusia, possibly following antique trade routes and/or Muslim invasions. Despite their contrasting histories, the European gene pools of both species represent unusual cases leading to the preservation of autochthonous, North African lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two biotypes or variants of rabies virus (RABV) occur in southern Africa. These variants are respectively adapted to hosts belonging to the Canidae family (the canid variant) and hosts belonging to the Herpestidae family (the mongoose variant). Due to the distinct host adaptation and differences in epidemiology and pathogenesis, it has been hypothesized that the two variants were introduced into Africa at different times. The objective of this study was to investigate the molecular phylogeny of representative RABV isolates of the mongoose variant towards a better understanding of the origins of this group. The study was based on an analysis of the full nucleoprotein and glycoprotein gene sequences of a panel of 27 viruses. Phylogenetic analysis of this dataset confirmed extended evolutionary adaptation of isolates in specific geographic areas. The evolutionary dynamics of this virus variant was investigated using Bayesian methodology, allowing for rate variation among viral lineages. Molecular clock analysis estimated the age of the African mongoose RABV to be approximately 200 years old, which is in concurrence with literature describing rabies in mongooses since the early 1800s. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

1. The loss of biodiversity caused by agricultural expansion can be countered by adopting wildlife-friendly farming strategies and by expanding the network of nature reserves. The potential benefits of agricultural extensification, represented in Europe by agri-environmental schemes, still remain unclear. In particular, the effectiveness of preserving linear woody vegetation to retain forest carnivores in farmland has received limited attention. We document the value of hedgerows and narrow strips of riparian forest for the Egyptian mongoose Herpestes ichneumon and the common genet Genetta genetta. 2. In an agricultural mosaic of southern Spain containing 4·7% of woody vegetation, we tested hypotheses about the role of linear elements and three farmland types differing in the amount, quality and structure of woody cover. We analysed the influence of linear elements on the placement and utilization of home ranges by combining compositional analysis and numerical methods. 3. Mongooses and genets strongly selected linear woody vegetation. All types of farmland, including open fields, dehesa (savanna-like pastureland or arable land rich in oak trees Quercus ilex and Q. suber) and olive Olea europaea groves, were avoided, suggesting that both species strictly depend upon native woody cover. 4. Most individuals made regular use of hedgerows and some individuals used hedgerows as the only source of woody cover in their home ranges. 5. The distribution of home ranges suggested that individuals made up a continuous, rather than discrete, population in a spatially structured habitat. An evenly distributed hedgerow network across the intervening agricultural matrix could prevent population fragmentation. 6. Synthesis and applications. A suitable network of linear cover allows some forest carnivores to survive in agricultural landscapes containing a low proportion (<10%) of native woody vegetation. Length (>0·5 km), width (4–10 m), quality... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Iberian lynx, (Lynx pardinus), is the most endangered felid in the world. To determine whether sympatric carnivores are reservoirs of pathogens posing a disease risk for the lynx, evidence of exposure to 17 viral, bacterial and protozoan agents was investigated in 176 carnivores comprising 26 free-living lynx, 53 domestic cats, 28 dogs, 33 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), 24 Egyptian mongooses (Herpestes ichneumon), 10 common genets (Genetta genetta) and 2 Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) in the areas inhabited by the last two populations of Iberian lynx, both in Andalusia (South-Western Spain). The results indicated that the lynx had low rates of contact with viral pathogens, with one seropositive finding each for feline leukemia virus, parvovirus and canine adenovirus-1, whereas contact with bacteria and protozoa appeared more frequent. Active infections with parvovirus, Ehrliehia spp., Mycobacterium bovis, Leptospira interrogans and Cytauxzoon spp. were confirmed. In contrast, 53% of the domestic cats were exposed to some infectious agent (prevalence range 4.5-11.4%). Antibodies to canine distemper virus and parvovirus were frequently found in dogs (32% and 42%, respectively) and foxes (30% and 12%). Past or present infections with parvovirus, Ehrlichia spp., Chlamydophila spp., M. boris, Salmonella enterica, L. interrogans, Toxoplasma gondii, and Neospora caninum were also detected in these and other species surveyed. Questionnaires to owners revealed that 14% of the dogs but none of the cats had been vaccinated, and no cat had been neutered. Based on the apparent absence of acquired immunity of the lynx against infectious agents, the frequent detection of agents among sympatric carnivores, and the reported lack of immunocompetence of the Iberian lynx, a disease outbreak among the local abundant carnivores may pose a serious disease risk for lynx conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the isolation of 11 polymorphic tetranucleotide microsatellite loci in the Egyptian mongoose ( Herpestes ichneumon). In a sample of 27 individuals, we observed between 4 and 7 alleles per locus and their observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.37 to 0.85 and from 0.44 to 0.79, respectively. All genotypic frequencies conformed to Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium expectations and there were no instances of linkage disequilibrium detected between pairs of loci. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the feeding habits of male and female Egyptian mongoose in Portugal. According to the authors, sex-driven behavioral changes in feeding habits could result to dimorphism and reduced intraspecific competition. To evaluate the sex-driven differences in the diet of the mongoose, the researchers conduct an analysis of the content of road or predator-controlled killed animals. Based on the analysis, the preferred food of mongooses in northwestern Europe is mammals, followed by reptiles. However, the analysis reveals that female mongooses focus no reptiles, while the males consume mostly mammals.

The severe loss or degradation of riparian habitats has led to their impoverishment and impaired function, which may have severe consequences on both the riparian habitats themselves and their associated biota, including mammalian carnivores. We selected 70 riparian habitat reaches to evaluate the condition of the riparian habitats in southern Portugal and their use by carnivores. These sites were assessed for riparian condition using the stream visual assessment protocol (SVAP) and surveyed for carnivore presence along the riparian zones and across the surrounding matrix landscape, both in the wet (winter) and the dry (summer) season. Results show that carnivore surveys adjacent to riparian habitats consistently had significantly higher species richness than the matrix habitats, in both sampling seasons. Carnivore relative abundance and relative abundance of stone marten, common genet and Egyptian mongoose also showed higher values in riparian habitats, with significant differences in at least one season. The Eurasian badger, on the other hand, showed higher relative abundance values in the landscape matrix, though differences were not significant. The SVAP index ranked about 83% riparian reaches as poor or fair condition, and species richness was significantly higher in fair condition reaches during the wet season. These results reflect the importance of riparian habitats in Mediterranean ecosystems for mammalian carnivores. However, the generalized poor condition of these habitats suggests that direct measures for riparian restoration could be appropriate. The preservation or improvement of riparian habitats would certainly benefit the mammalian carnivore populations and consequently their conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. We reviewed patterns of fruit consumption amongst 10 species of mesocarnivores: red fox Vulpes vulpes, weasel Mustela nivalis, stoat Mustela erminea, polecat Mustela putorius, stone marten Martes foina, pine marten Martes martes, Eurasian badger Meles meles, common genet Genetta genetta, Egyptian mongoose Herpestes ichneumon and wildcat Felis silvestris in Mediterranean Europe. 2. The 65 reviewed studies recorded 79 different fruits eaten by carnivores, 58 of which were identified to species. Most records (63%) were of fleshy fruits with high pulp content. The frequency of occurrence of fruit items varied widely amongst species and regions. Four of the carnivore species (red fox, stone marten, badger and common genet) included more than 30 fruit species in their diet. 3. A longitudinal pattern was detected in the consumption of fruit in the Mediterranean region, with the frequency of occurrence of fruit consumption increasing towards the east. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractFive critically endangered Iberian lynxes (Lynx pardinus) and 35 other sympatric carnivores (19 feral cats Felis catus, 12 Egyptian mongooses Herpestes ichneumon, and 4 common genets Genetta genetta) were analysed for helminths in Sierra Morena and Do?ana area (southern Spain). Ancylostoma tubaeforme, which was believed to be harmful for lynx cubs according to a previous study, was present in the only lynx and in 53% of cats analysed in Do?ana (80% in adult cats). Other species shared in both areas were Toxocara cati(1 lynx, 31% of cats), Joyeuxiella pasqualei(1 lynx, 21% of cats) and Mesocestoidessp. (2 lynxes, 5% of cats). Only one mongoose was parasitized, harbouring larvae of two acantocephalan species not previously reported in the Iberian peninsula (Centrorhynchus(Sphaerirostris) lanceaand Centrorhynchus(Longirostris) undulatus). Feral cats may be a reservoir for hookworms and other helminths affecting the Iberian lynx. In contrast, mongooses and genets may not play a role in the epidemiology of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary We used path analysis to investigate the causal relationships between Iberian lynx and Egyptian mongoose track numbers, and to estimate the direct effect of the former on the latter in the Doñana area (2750 km2 ), south-western Spain. Relative abundance of rabbits, shrub cover and protection level were also considered in the path analysis. An observational study consisting of a repeated track survey with a split-plot design was also carried out between 1990 and 1996 to independently test the results obtained by path analysis. Maximum likelihood ratio tests of the goodness-of-fit of the model to the data and other indices used all indicated that the proposed theoretical model depicting the relationships among variables was adequate. Egyptian mongooses suffered a significant direct negative effect from lynx, and rabbits and protection level positively, and significantly affected lynx track abundance; rabbits were also significantly affected by shrub cover (all these standardized partial correlation coefficients ranged from 0.34 to 0.41). Shrub cover did not directly affect either lynx or mongoose tracks. Relatively important indirect effects were found between shrubs and lynx (0.12), and between rabbits and mongooses (-0.14), and protection and mongooses (-0.17). The two latter non-intuitive indirect effects were through the lynx path, as a consequence of the negative direct influence of lynx on mongooses. The repeated track censuses confirmed that lynx presence significantly affects number of mongoose tracks. In areas without lynx, mean number of mongoose tracks were 3.6 times higher than in areas with lynx. It remains an interesting question which of several proposed hypotheses explains co-existence of both species in south-western Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The habitat use by Egyptian mongooses during nocturnal and diurnal resting, foraging and walking was studied by radio-tracking between September 1987 and September 1989 in south-western Spain. Mongooses always avoided open areas, and preferred those with dense vegetation during both nocturnal and diurnal resting, and when active. Vegetation types with low density of understorey and ground cover were used less than expected on the basis of availability. No significant monthly variation was observed. Mongooses moved at different speeds in each type of vegetation. Foraging activities predominated in areas with the thickest ground cover and density of vegetation, while more open areas were mainly traversed. Mongooses selected the areas with high densities of their main prey (rabbits) and shelters (thickets and rabbit warrens) for foraging and resting, respectively. Both requirements were provided by the same vegetation types. Possible applications for the conservation and management of this species in relation to key habitats are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the causes of range expansions in abundant species can help predict future species distributions. During range expansions, animals are exposed to novel environments and are required to cope with new and unpredictable stressors. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are mediators of the hormonal and behavioural mechanisms allowing animals to cope with unpredictable changes in the environment and are therefore expected to differ between populations at expansion edge and the historic range. However, to date, very few studies have evaluated the relationship between GCs and range expansion. The Egyptian mongoose has been rapidly expanding its range in Portugal over the past 30 years. In this study, we applied an information theoretic approach to determine the most important spatial and environmental predictors of hair GCs (hGCs) in the population, after controlling for normal patterns of hGC variation in the species. We observed a decrease in hGC as distance from the historic range increased (i.e. closer to the expansion front). This distance term was present in all of the top models and had a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) that did not overlap with zero, strongly supporting its influence on hGC. We estimated a 0.031 pg/mg (95% CI: -0.057, -0.004) decrease in hGCs for each kilometre distance to the Tagus River, which was once the limit of the species' distribution. Our results indicate that the species' expansion is unlikely to be limited by mechanisms related to or mediated by the physiological stress response. The decrease in hGC levels towards the expansion edge coupled with limited evidence of a negative effect of human population density suggests that the species' northward expansion in Portugal could continue., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press and the Society for Experimental Biology.)

The Egyptian mongoose, Herpestes ichneumon , is the only extant mongoose in Europe, with populations still distributed in Africa and the Middle East. In this study, we present the first mitochondrial genome sequence of Herpestes ichneumon and we investigate its phylogenetic position within Feliformia suborder. The resultant mitogenome sequence is 16,775 bps, composed of a conserved set of 37 genes containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region. Our results represent a valuable resource for further phylogeographical studies., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s)., (© 2021 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)