The small Indian mongoose is the poster child for bad ideas in Hawaii. Introduced back in the days of the sugar plantations, the idea was for them to get rid of the rats running rampant in the cane fields. Alas, rats are nocturnal, mongooses diurnal, so their paths only crossed on the shift change. Instead, the mongooses appreciated the absence of predators in Hawaii and the abundance of ground-nesting birds and were major reasons for the extinction of many native bird species.
They are most frequently seen running across roads, like big sausages with little legs. Closer up, there’s an intensity about them, as seen in this photo. I’ve had a couple of close encounters and have no wish to get into an altercation with one. I’d probably win, but would likely bear the scars of victory!
Graham's Island 
yikes on the impact they are having on native wildlife, but wow what a shot – I still recall my failed efforts to photograph them in Portugal!
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They’re pretty speedy, so when I see one that isn’t on the move I try to get photos.
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He doesn’t look as though he’ll miss a trick, Graham.
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They’re very sharp. Not a creature to sneak up on!
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So intent
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We also have them here in our area running across the roads.
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Some get run over here, but they’re pretty speedy, especially considering their little legs.
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The stupidity of humans is incredible
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I’m inclined to agree.
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What a shame the mongoose doesn’t do the job it was hired for. This one really does look intense. Must be startling to see them!
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Mostly I see them running across the road, but some encounters can be a bit fraught!
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