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Roar & Rove

Porcupine

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 12-15 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 20 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 70-90 cm (28-35 inches)
  • Tail Length: Around 8-10 cm (3-4 inches)
  • Weight: Typically 11-18 kg (24-40 lbs)
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Found across South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and parts of the Middle East.
  • Habitat: Prefers rocky hillsides, forests, and grasslands. They are also found in agricultural areas and near human settlements, showcasing their adaptability.
Diet
  • Roots and Tubers: A major component of their diet.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: Including cultivated crops, which sometimes leads to conflict with farmers.
  • Leaves and Bark: Consumed when other food sources are scarce
Sri Lankan Porcupine (Hystrix indica)

The Sri Lankan Porcupine is a fascinating and distinctive rodent native to the diverse habitats of Sri Lanka. Known for its unique appearance and nocturnal habits, it is an integral part of the island’s wildlife.

Physical Characteristics: The Sri Lankan Porcupine measures about 60-90 cm (24-35 inches) in length, with a tail length of 8-10 cm (3-4 inches). Weighing between 11-18 kg (24-40 lbs), it has a robust build. Its most striking feature is the array of sharp quills that cover its back and sides, providing a formidable defense against predators. These quills are black and white, adding to its distinctive appearance.

Habitat: This porcupine thrives in a variety of habitats, including subtropical and tropical forests, grasslands, and rocky areas. It can also be found in agricultural areas and plantations, adapting well to human-altered environments. Sri Lanka’s varied ecosystems offer an ideal habitat for this resilient rodent.

Diet: The diet of the Sri Lankan Porcupine is diverse, primarily consisting of:

  • Roots and Tubers: A major part of its diet.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: Often scavenged from farms and gardens.
  • Bark and Wood: Especially during the dry season.
  • Insects: Occasionally, to supplement its diet.

Behavior: The Sri Lankan Porcupine is nocturnal, emerging at night to forage for food. It is a solitary animal, often spending the day hidden in burrows or rock crevices. When threatened, the porcupine raises and rattles its quills as a warning. If the threat persists, it can charge backward, using its sharp quills to fend off predators.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Sri Lankan Porcupine is classified as Least Concern (LC), indicating a stable population. However, it faces threats from habitat destruction, hunting for its meat, and conflict with farmers. Conservation efforts are essential to protect its natural habitats and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

Lifespan: In the wild, the Sri Lankan Porcupine typically lives between 12-15 years, but it can live up to 20 years in captivity under optimal care.