The North American porcupine is a large, slow-moving rodent instantly recognized by its coat of roughly 30,000 hollow quills. It is the only New World porcupine found in the United States and Canada, spending much of its time high in trees gnawing bark and buds. Despite its fearsome reputation, it is a gentle herbivore that would rather climb than confront a predator.
About the Porcupine
Erethizon dorsatum
Advertisement
⚡ Speed Comparison
📸 Photo Gallery
💡 Fun Facts
01
A porcupine's quills are modified hairs coated with microscopic backward-facing barbs that work deeper into flesh with muscle movement.
02
Contrary to popular myth, porcupines cannot shoot their quills — a predator must make physical contact to receive them.
03
Porcupines crave salt so intensely they will chew tool handles, canoe paddles, and even car tires coated with road salt.
04
Newborn porcupines, called porcupettes, are born with soft quills that harden within hours of birth.
05
A porcupine's quills contain an antibiotic coating that helps prevent infection if the animal accidentally quills itself.
📍 Where to Find This Animal
Habitat Types:
Temperate Forest
🛒 Porcupine Related Gear
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Join the Conversation
Share your thoughts about the Porcupine