Did you know?
Porcupine spines can be over half a meter long. When disturbed, porcupines ruffle up their spines, making themselves look twice their size. The tail spines are hollow. When rubbed against each other, they produce a discouraging, rattling sound. If the predator still approaches, the porcupine will turn its posterior and ram its spines into the predator.
Characteristics
| Classification | Order: rodents (rodentia); Family: old world porcupines (hystricidae) |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Lowlands and tropical mountain forests, steppes, semi-dry deserts, cultivated landscapes and plantations |
| Reproduction | Gestation period: 93–105 days, on average one litter per year, 1–3 offspring |
| Diet | In addition to tubers, roots, shoots, fruit and insects, they also gnaw on bones. |
Status according to Red List
More information you will get on the web page of the IUCN Red List.
