Indian Crested Porcupine Hystrix indica

The Indian Crested Porcupine is a large, nocturnal rodent species belonging to the Hystricidae family. It is widely distributed across South Asia and the Middle East, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of Afghanistan and Iran. It inhabits a variety of environments, such as forests, grasslands, rocky areas, and agricultural fields. This porcupine is easily recognized by its robust body, covered in dark brown or black bristles, interspersed with long, sharp quills that can reach up to 30 centimeters in length. The quills, which are white and black banded, are a key defense mechanism, rattling when the animal feels threatened and deterring predators.

The Indian Crested Porcupine is primarily herbivorous, feeding on roots, tubers, fruits, seeds, and bark. It is known to forage at night, often digging with its strong claws to unearth food.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Schedule I

CITES: Not Defined