Camera trap captures rare 'foreign' porcupine in Ile-Alatau National Park

Tengrinews.kz - A rare sight was captured by a camera trap in Ile-Alatau National Park: an Indian crested porcupine.

The elusive and spiky animal, listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book of endangered species, was once again spotted in the mountains thanks to camera surveillance.

The appearance of this rare guest is seen as a positive sign by experts, indicating that the park's natural ecosystem remains favorable for the survival of such uncommon species.

For scientists, the sighting is a valuable discovery. For nature enthusiasts, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of wildlife without leaving the Almaty region.

The last recorded encounter with an Indian porcupine in the park was in February this year, when a park inspector spotted one. At the time, a commenter on Tengrinews.kz remarked with surprise:

"We have them in Kazakhstan, but it's called an 'Indian' porcupine?"

Despite its name, the Indian crested porcupine is not exclusive to India. It can be found across a range stretching from Central to Southeast Asia, including Kazakhstan.

The animal, which can weigh up to 15 kilograms, is primarily nocturnal and highly adaptable, living in deserts, savannahs, forests, and even mountainous regions—sometimes at elevations up to 3,900 meters above sea level.

The species earned its name due to its widespread presence across the Indian subcontinent.

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