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Location: Rajouri
Image: Amit Sharma

Brandt's Hedgehog

Paraechinus hypomelas

The Brandt's Hedgehog is a small, nocturnal mammal native to arid and semi-arid regions of the Middle East and parts of South Asia, including Pakistan and western India. It prefers rocky deserts, scrublands, and dry open habitats.

 

This hedgehog has distinctive dark brown to blackish spines on its back, with a paler face and underside. It is slightly smaller than the more common Indian Hedgehog, with a head-body length of about 15–20 cm. Like other hedgehogs, it curls into a tight ball when threatened, using its spines for defense.

 

Brandt’s Hedgehog is primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, termites, and other small invertebrates, though it may also consume plant matter. It is a solitary and secretive species, active at night and sheltering during the day in burrows or under rocks.

 

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Not Defined

CITES: Not Defined