Copyright © 2009 Audubon Nature Institute P.O. Box 4327 New Orleans, LA 70178 (504) 861-2537 air@auduboninstitute.org
Indian Crested Porcupine
Animal's Behavior
Covered with hollow, rattling quills, the Indian crested porcupine will back into predators to stab them with its needle-sharp quills. Even tigers and leopards have been known to be injured by the porcupine. These animals are nocturnal, spending daytime hours in caves or burrows.
Eating Habits
Mostly vegetarian (eating fruit, grain and roots), the Indian crested porcupine will also gnaw on bones in search of calcium to strengthen its quills.
Range
Southern Asia and the Middle East
Conservation Efforts
The Indian porcupine is highly adaptable to many varying environments, from grasslands to mountainsides.
Animal Facts
- Porcupine young are born with their eyes open and are covered with short, soft quills.
- The Indian porcupine is usually monogamous.
- The Indian porcupine makes a great show of warning potential attackers by raising and rattling its quills.
Scientific Name
Hystrix indica
Classification
Animalia, Chordata, Mammalia, Rodentia, Hystricidae
Place of Birth
Mountains, grasslands, scrublands and forests
Size
3 feet long, 32 lbs.
Color
Brown or black quills, with alternating bands of white
Lifespan
20 years
Conservation Status
Least Concern
