Porcupines invade Kashmir saffron fields, devouring corms and slashing production

Key facts

• Porcupines are damaging saffron fields in Pampore, Lethpora and adjoining areas in south Kashmir.
• Porcupines eat corms, the bulb-like structures essential for saffron growth.
• Saffron production has fallen from about 27,000 kg a decade-and-a-half ago to nearly 1,000 kg now.
• Pampore MLA Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi estimates constituency loss at Rs 500 crores.
• Farmers cannot harm porcupines as they are a protected species.
• The government has deployed a dedicated wildlife team to inspect affected saffron fields.
• Authorities advise farmers to clear caves, crevices, bushes and undergrowth to remove porcupine shelters.
• Farmers are recommended to install 1.5-metre-deep mesh barriers around saffron karewas to block burrowing.
• Reflective white paint on tree trunks or white gunny bags are suggested as low-cost nocturnal deterrents.
• Motion-activated lighting and sound sensors along field perimeters are advised to startle porcupines at night.
• Capturing cages are being placed for live-trapping and subsequent translocation of porcupines to forest habitats.
• Wildlife Protection staff have been directed to patrol around saffron fields in Lethpora and adjacent villages during night hours.