Large-toothed Ferret Badger

The large-toothed ferret-badger is a small, elongated mustelid with short legs, broad paws and strong digging claws. Its grey-brown coat has a pale underside, while the mostly white head carries black bands across the muzzle and forehead. A white dorsal stripe continues to the tail base. Its unusually robust teeth can crush hard-shelled insects and molluscs. Adults measure 33–43cm from head to body and weigh 1–3kg. (Animal Diversity Web; Mammal Diversity Database)

The species ranges from Nepal and northeastern India through southern China and mainland Southeast Asia, inhabiting forest, savanna and grassland. It is principally nocturnal and rests during the day in natural shelters or existing burrows rather than excavating its own. Most foraging occurs on the ground, though it also climbs in search of insects and snails. Other foods include earthworms, frogs, lizards, rodents, birds, eggs, carrion and fruit. (Animal Diversity Web)