The mongoose looks like it is trying to defend itself and/or its territory from the lions. ... (See “‘Unusual’ Pictures: Lions vs. Hippo.”) Is this kind of behavior common for a mongoose?

Mongoose’s primary advantage is its agility. They are very quick with extremely fast reflexes which help it to evade a snake’s strike. Also, the mongoose is naturally resistant to snake’s venom.

For the mongoose, a fight with a snake may not only be a battle for survival but also a battle for the safety of its young. This is why mongooses are often seen aggressively engaging snakes.

In the frequently daffy, outlandishly-named “Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose,” which is based on a true story (!), Pegg plays the title role of “beardo” Dr. Nandor Fodor.