The marsh mongoose is found throughout most of sub-Saharan Africa in freshwater habitats with dense vegetation such as marshes, reed beds, and estuaries. As might be expected it is a good swimmer. Pads on their hands and feet help them maintain firm footing on slippery surfaces. It is nocturnal and solitary. This mongoose will eat nearly any kind of small animal as well as fruit. It will crack open hard-shelled prey, such as mussels, clams, crabs, or snails, by throwing them down against a rock. A marsh mongoose keeps trails through the vegetation in its territory. If threatened, the mongoose may growl and bark, and discharge stinky musk.