These slow-moving rodents protect themselves from predators with an unusual defense: 30,000 long, sharp quills—actually modified hairs over a sheet of muscle—that can be lodged in and even kill an attacker.
What They Eat
In summer, porcupines eat leaves, nuts and berries. During other seasons, they favor the bark, buds and needles of trees.
Where They Live
Porcupines are found in all of Minnesota’s forests and even in wooded farming areas. There may be several porcupines in a square mile of forest.
What They Do
Porcupines have such an effective defense that they don’t need to move quickly. They tend to stay close to home, which is often high in a tree.
How They’re Doing
Porcupines are doing well in Minnesota.
Where in the World
North America
Habitat
Desert Prairie/Steppe Temperate Forest/Taiga
Conservation Status
Animal Bites
Head & body: 23-29 in.
Tail: 7-9 in.
Height: (at shoulder) up to 12 in.
Weight: average 8.5-13 lbs.; can weigh up to 37 lbs
Lifespan: 5-7 years in wild
Taxonomic Category
Other mammals
Where at the Zoo
