Happy World Porcupine Day! 🎉
It may come as no surprise that their scientific name means “quill pig!” These rodents are well known for their quills, which are modified hairs made of keratin. Although they can’t shoot their quills, they make a great defense against predators!
At the Zoo, you can meet our two resident African crested porcupines, Quillbur and Don Prickles. Although they are nocturnal and are often seen napping in the daytime, you may catch them foraging in the morning for breakfast or tearing up an enrichment box!
(📷: Zookeeper Lindsey)
