Mammals ‹‹ Go Back

This large species of rodent is found in southern Asia and the Middle East.

The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012).

This species is not protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.

The Indian Porcupine is a nocturnal species, which is commonly found throughout the country. I have recorded them at many localities in the country including forested areas, Marshlands and agricultural lands.  At night I have also observed them in urban areas such as Thalangama, Bolgoda, Sri Jayawardenapura, Ratmalana, Attidiya, Kotte, Nawala and Battaramulla. Even though quite common in most habitats Porcupines are rarely seen by people due to their nocturnal habits. I have often come across their quills in most rocky areas of up country or low country tea estates. This is a pure vegetarian and loves feeding on most crops grown by human beings, which often results in the destruction of this animal by farmers.

In Wilpattu I have seen this species once during the day at Tala Wila and at many locations out side the park during my nocturnal game drives. The images presented here were taken at Maradanmaduwa bungalow where a few individuals have got used to visit the bungalow premises at night.