LAUSR

Abstract The South Indian hedgehog Paraechinus nudiventris (Horsfield, 1851) is one of the least studied, small mammals endemic to India. Although it is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), its distribution is still unknown due to the paucity of data. This study reports the distribution data of the South Indian hedgehogs from 16 districts in Tamil Nadu, India. The distribution records were retrieved from field surveys, published records, interviews, trade survey, local newspaper reports and museum specimens. From 2012 to 2017, there were 103 localities and 18 live sightings recorded. Its major habitats are grassland, shrubs around urban landscapes, small hillocks and thorny shrubs. In Tamil Nadu, it is found at low elevations; in sandy patches, dry areas and on scrub dominated plains. Hunting, habitat loss, roadkill and local trade were found to be the main threats responsible for the species’ declining population. This study discusses details such as distribution, habitat and ongoing threats, with a view to contributing to future species conservation and legislative decision-making.