The Common Kusimanse (Crossarchus obscurus) is a diurnal dwarf mongoose. They differ from other mongooses in their preferred habitats which are forested areas near water, rather than open grasslands. As a social animal the Common Kusimanse lives in a small family group of 10-20 or more animals that follows a strict hierarchical structure. Physically, they have a weasel-shaped body with dark or red-brown, thick fur that has a wiry texture down the back, and a fine and soft texture on the underside. They have a long snout, short legs with long claws, dark colored eyes, and a short and stiff tail that tapers to a point.
The Kusimanse has a body length in the range of 12”-18” (30.5-46 cm) and total weight of 1-3.1 lb (.45-1.4 kg). Kusimanses have a shoulder height between 6.3”-9.1” (16-23 cm), body width of 4.9”-7.5” (12.5-19 cm), and tail length of 5.9”-9.8” (15-25 cm). The typical lifespan of the Kusimanse is between 9-13 years.
The Common Kusimanse (Crossarchus obscurus) is a diurnal dwarf mongoose. They differ from other mongooses in their preferred habitats which are forested areas near water, rather than open grasslands. As a social animal the Common Kusimanse lives in a small family group of 10-20 or more animals that follows a strict hierarchical structure. Physically, they have a weasel-shaped body with dark or red-brown, thick fur that has a wiry texture down the back, and a fine and soft texture on the underside. They have a long snout, short legs with long claws, dark colored eyes, and a short and stiff tail that tapers to a point.
The Kusimanse has a body length in the range of 12”-18” (30.5-46 cm) and total weight of 1-3.1 lb (.45-1.4 kg). Kusimanses have a shoulder height between 6.3”-9.1” (16-23 cm), body width of 4.9”-7.5” (12.5-19 cm), and tail length of 5.9”-9.8” (15-25 cm). The typical lifespan of the Kusimanse is between 9-13 years.