Five tiny dwarf mongoose pups born at Chester Zoo have taken their first steps.

The petite youngsters, each similar in size to a Kit Kat Chunky, were spotted following in the footsteps of mum as they emerged from their den and took their maiden steps in the outside world.

The quintet is the first litter for parents Mini and Cooper since the pair arrived at the zoo in late 2016.

Keepers were first alerted to the new arrivals several weeks ago when they heard 'little squeaks' coming from their nest box.

However, it's only now that have the pups opened their eyes and mustered up the confidence to venture out.

Five tiny mongoose pups have taken their first steps at Chester Zoo

Nick Davis, deputy curator of mammals at Chester Zoo, said: “Dwarf mongooses are curious characters and are incredibly adventurous and playful. The babies are certainly keeping mum and dad on their toes.”
"Native to sub-Saharan Africa, the dwarf mongoose is the smallest of all carnivores on the continent, with adults growing to just 30cm (12 inches) in length.

"Given the tiny size of the zoo’s latest arrivals, it’s too early for keepers to be able to confirm the genders of each of the pups and thus, give them names."

One of the mongoose pups recently born at Chester Zoo