Mystery Creature Sparks Curiosity
A fast-moving, long-bodied animal spotted around farms in Karzakan, Karbabad and Adhari has sparked curiosity among residents, with some identifying it as a “sarooub” and linking it to the animal traditionally known in Arabic as ibn irs.
Photographs and videos shared online have fuelled questions about the animal’s identity, why it is appearing around agricultural areas and whether residents should be concerned.
A wildlife enthusiast recently photographed the animal in Karzakan and shared the sighting on Instagram, prompting further discussion. Some residents have urged others not to approach or attempt to catch it, given that a wild animal could defend itself if frightened or cornered.
Environmental consultant and wildlife biologist Haya Aldoseri said the first step should be identifying the species rather than relying on assumptions. “Not every small, long-bodied animal is a weasel, and a photograph can usually help establish the species," she said.
Aldoseri said that if the animal is identified as a mongoose, there would generally be little reason for alarm. Mongooses are adaptable and may appear around farms where food, shelter and hiding places are readily available. They are generally shy around people and tend to avoid contact.
The Indian grey mongoose is among the mammal species recorded in Bahrain, which has around 17 terrestrial mammal species.
Aldoseri advised residents to keep their distance, avoid feeding the animal and not attempt to trap or handle it.
For farmers, she said, it may also be useful to identify potential food and shelter sources attracting wildlife, including poultry, small animals and accessible feed.
For now, the sightings may reflect the availability of suitable habitat around Bahrain’s farms. The priority, AlDoseri said, is to identify the species first and respond based on facts rather than assumptions.
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