Indian Crested Porcupine:
It was observed that the Indian crested porcupine (Hystrix indica) has begun feeding on saffron corms beneath the soil, hollowing out harvests before they can bloom in Kashmir.
- Indian Crested Porcupine is a large rodent belongs to the Old World porcupine family, Hystricidae.
- It mainly occurs on rocky hillsides but is also found in tropical and temperate scrublands, grasslands, and forests.
- They are also found throughout the Himalayan Mountains, reaching up to elevations of 2400 meters.
- It is found throughout southeast and central Asia and in parts of the Middle East, including such countries as India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Israel, Iran, and Saudi Arabia.
- Lifespan: 18 to 20 years
- A porcupine’s best defense is the formidable set of quills on its back. But it can’t “throw” them. When alarmed, the Indian Porcupine launches its quill for a backward attack.
- It is nocturnal, with the species seeking shelter in caves, between rocks, or in its burrow during the day.
- They have a very broad and mostly herbivorous They primarily feed on fruits, grains, roots, and other vegetable material.
- Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Least Concern.
