The Crested Porcupine(Hystrix cristata), also known as the European Porcupine , African Porcupine or North African Porcupine is a species of hystricomorphous rodent belonging to the Hystricidae family. It is found in the hot zones of Asia and Africa and in Europe, in the Centre and South of Italy.
Many zoologists believe these are not indigenous groups, but that they were introduced by the Romans.
It is characterised by long, sharp, stiff black and white quills which may measure up to 35cm in length and cover the back, sides and tail. When threatened, it raises the spines and shakes them, causing a rattling sound from the tail. The quills are not fixed permanently in the animal’s skin, so they may be left embedded in the predator’s flesh, causing major injuries and allowing the porcupine to escape.
It measures around 60 cm in length and is 25 cm high, weighing up to 15 kg. It has a large, robust head, a short body and feet with strong claws.
The porcupine lives alone or in small family groups, on dry ground in the undergrowth, especially on hillsides and often near human dwellings. They hide in cracks in rocks or in burrows which they themselves dig. It is a nocturnal animal, with an exceptionally sensitive sense of smell but with a less developed hearing and sight.
It feeds on plant shoots, roots, tubers, diverse crops and occasionally, on animal flesh. It may travel several kilometres from its burrow in search of food.
Porcupines do not normally bother other animals, but when threatened, they raise their spines and shake them, causing their tail to rattle. The quills are not fixed permanently in the animal’s skin, meaning they may come loose if attacked. Contrary to popular belief, porcupines are unable to throw their quills like spears in self-defence.
