The Indian hog badger (Arctonyx collaris) is a species of badger found in the Indian subcontinent, including India and Bangladesh.
The Indian hog badger is a medium-sized mammal, measuring around 60-70 cm in length and weighing between 10-15 kg. It has a stocky build with short, powerful legs and a broad head with a pointed snout. The fur is generally black or dark brown with white markings on the face and throat.
Indian hog badgers are primarily nocturnal and spend most of their time on the ground, although they are capable of climbing trees if necessary. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles, as well as fruits and other plant matter.
While not as well-known as other species of badger, the Indian hog badger plays an important role in its ecosystem as a predator and scavenger. However, like many species in the region, it is threatened by habitat loss and degradation due to human activities such as deforestation and agriculture.
| Sl No | Characteristics | Description |
| 1 | Common Name | Hog badger |
| 2 | Scientific Name | Arctonyx collaris |
| 3 | Length | Up to 70 cm |
| 4 | Colour | Dark brown or black fur on the upper body with a white stripe running down the head, neck, and back |
| 5 | Girth | Not available |
| 6 | Tail Length | Around 16 cm |
| 7 | Height till Shoulder | Around 25 cm |
| 8 | Average weight | 6-12 kg |
| 9 | Food habits | Omnivorous, feeding on insects, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fruits, and roots |
| 10 | Habitat | Found in forests, grasslands, and farmland in Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, and Bhutan |
| 11 | Interesting Facts | Hog badgers are excellent diggers, able to create complex underground burrow systems. They are also known for their distinctive vocalizations, including growls, grunts, and hisses. |
Appearance
The hog badger (Arctonyx collaris) is a species of badger native to Southeast Asia. They are typically dark brown or black in colour, with a white stripe running down their backs. Their bodies are stout and muscular, with short legs and a broad head.
In terms of size, adult hog badgers typically weigh between 4 to 9 kg (8.8 to 19.8 lbs) and measure around 60 to 70 cm (24 to 28 in) in length. Females are generally smaller than males.
One special characteristic of hog badgers is their strong sense of smell. They use their keen sense of smell to locate their prey, which includes insects, small mammals, and reptiles. They are also known for their digging abilities, as they use their powerful claws to excavate burrows and search for food.
Interestingly, hog badgers are also known for their vocalisations. They produce a range of sounds, including grunts, growls, and hisses, which they use to communicate with each other.
Food Habits
Hog badgers are omnivores and have a varied diet that includes insects, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and fruits. They are known for their hunting abilities, as they use their keen sense of smell to locate prey and their powerful claws to dig for insects and other small animals.
Habitat
Hog badgers (Arctonyx collaris) are found in India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, China, Vietnam.
In India, hog badgers are primarily found in the northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, as well as in the eastern state of West Bengal. They are typically found in forested areas, including tropical and subtropical forests, as well as in grasslands and agricultural areas.
Vulnerable Species
Hog badgers (Arctonyx collaris) are listed as a species of “Vulnerable” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. However, the population trend is decreasing due to habitat loss, hunting, and fragmentation of their natural habitats.
In India, hog badgers are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which prohibits hunting, killing, or capturing them. However, illegal hunting and habitat destruction are still major threats to their survival.
There is no accurate estimate of the hog badger population in India, but it is believed to be declining due to habitat loss and hunting. Hog badgers are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss due to their dependence on forested areas for food and shelter.
Protected Areas
Nameri National Park is located in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and is known for its dense forests and rich wildlife. It is home to hog badgers as well as tigers, elephants, and many species of birds.
Balpakram National Park is located in the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya and is known for its unique topography and diverse wildlife. Hog badgers are one of the many species that can be found in this park.
Dampa Tiger Reserve located in the western part of Mizoram is home to a range of wildlife, including hog badgers. It is also an important habitat for the endangered clouded leopard.
