Distribution of Small Indian Mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus) in the Eastern Herzegovina – spreading inside mainland

Abstract

Spreading of small Indian mongoose ( Herpestes auropunctatus ) along Adriatic coast is well described in recent literature. However, data about its presence and spreading in mainland of Bosnia and Herzegovina are scarce. In this paper new records about distribution of small Indian mongoose in the region of Eastern Herzegovina are presented. This region is characteristic as the species was introduced few decades ago. These records confirm extension of this species’ range towards south-east along Trebišnjica river. Excluding valley of Neretva river were species was already recorded recently small Indian mongose is present in whole area of Popovo polje. Total distribution area of the small Indian mongoose in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 262.5 km 2 . So far there are no data about its presence in western from Neretva river. Having in mind that this is an invasive species, establishment of population monitoring and assessment of the impact which small Indian mongoose has on local fauna must be set as biodiversity conservation priorities in the future.