Saffron Farming in Kashmir is threatened by Indian Crested Porcupine

New menace to Saffron growing.

Recently, the feeding of saffron corms in the ground by the Indian crested porcupine has been reported in the Kashmir region causing significant agricultural losses. The animal interferes with the growth of crops at a tender age by hollowing out the corms before they are in a position to grow. This practice is currently being regarded as a threat that is increasingly threatening to the cultivation of saffron, a major source of livelihood in the area.

About the Indian Crested Porcupine

The Indian crested porcupine ( Hystrix indica ) is a huge rodent in the family Hystricidae. It is one of the biggest rodent species in Asia and can be easily identified by its sharp and protective quills. The species is very widely distributed in South Asia, Central Asia, and some of the Middle East, including in India and neighbouring countries.

Habitat and Distribution

This porcupine is very versatile and can be found in numerous habitats including rocky hillsides, scrublands, grasslands, and forests. It has a wide distribution in India, covering the Himalayan belt and is even able to occupy elevations of 2400 meters. It is highly adaptable which contributes significantly to its ubiquity.

Physical appearance and behaviour.

The species has been known to have a long life span of about 18-20 years. The most remarkable aspect of it is the fact that it has some stiff and sharp quills that serve to defend it against predators. Although incapable of throwing its quills, it may charge, backward, to hurt danger. The animal is a night animal and spends its days in burrows, caves or rock crevices. It can effectively dig with its powerful claws and wide feet.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• Scientific name: Hystrix indica.
• Family: Hystricidae (Old World porcupines).
• Nighttime and mostly herbivorous.
• Is too weak to hurl quills; defends himself with them.
• IUCN Status: Least Concern.

Food and Farm Effect.

Roots, tubers, fruits, and grains are the main food of the Indian crested porcupine. But the recent propensity of it to eat saffron corms has been a matter of concern among Kashmir farmers. It has a direct impact on yield and income by destroying crops before they germinate, which damages soil. This has brought into the limelight the necessity of improved crop protection measures and wildlife management to minimize human-wildlife conflict.