Kondana Rat (Millardia kondana)
The Kondana Rat is a nocturnal, burrowing rodent that is endemic to India. Notably, it is sometimes observed to construct nests, an uncommon trait among rodents. This species is critically restricted in distribution, found only on the Sinhagarh Plateau near Pune, Maharashtra, occupying an area of just about 1 square kilometre. The plateau is located at an elevation of approximately 1,470 metres above mean sea level.
Its preferred habitat includes tropical and subtropical dry deciduous forests and tropical scrublands, which offer the loose soil and vegetative cover required for burrowing.
The species faces significant threats, primarily due to habitat loss, overgrazing of vegetation, and disturbance from tourism and recreational activities. Given its extremely narrow range and specialized habitat, the Kondana Rat is considered highly vulnerable to extinction if conservation measures are not urgently implemented.