They are generally quiet, but do occasionally make sounds. Little is known about how the Cape grey mongoose communicate. The stand on their hind legs to scan for danger or prey. In summer they are not active during the hottest time of the day, but resume activities in the afternoon. They are active during the day, in summer from about 06:00 to 20:45, but they are less active in winter. The Cape grey mongoose is essentially terrestrial, but can climb shrubs or trees to catch prey or rest during the day. There are three subspecies, with Herpestes pulverulentus pulverulentus, which occurs throughout the distribution range Herpestes pulverulentus basuticus, which is found in the higher altitudes of Lesotho and western KwaZulu-Natal and Herpestes pulverulentus ruddi, which is only found in the extreme northwestern parts of the distribution range. The Cape grey mongoose is sometimes included in the genus Galerella. Species in the northwest are darker, almost brown-black. They have pointed muzzles and round ears. Their short legs are darker than the rest of the body. Their long, slender body is speckled dark grey with a long bushy tail of up to 20–34 cm long, that are always held close to the ground. The Cape grey mongoose is a small species that can grow 55–75 cm long and weigh from 0.5 kg to 1.2 kg. They are frequently seen darting across the road.

The Cape grey mongoose is a small mammal endemic to southern Africa.

Common names: Cape grey mongoose, small grey mongoose (Eng.) kleingrysmuishond, Kaapse grysmuishond (Afr.), maxindyani (Xitsonga)

Slender mongoose