The ring-tailed mongoose is a small carnivorous mammal found primarily in the forests and savannas of Madagascar. It is known for its distinctive long, bushy tail with alternating black and white rings, which helps it maintain balance while climbing trees. This species typically has a slender body, short legs, and a pointed snout, making it well-adapted for hunting small prey. These mongooses are social animals, often living in groups called clans. They primarily feed on insects, small mammals, and birds. The ring-tailed mongoose is also known for its vocalizations, which include a variety of sounds used for communication within the group.