Porcupines

North American Porcupine

NPS Photo

North American Porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) are the second largest rodents in North America, following the beaver, and are found from Alaska to Mexico. They are divided into seven subspecies based on their geographic distribution. All subspecies share a similar appearance, characterized by dark brown or black fur with white highlights and quills.

Physical Characteristics

• Quills: Each porcupine can have up to 30,000 quills, which are modified hairs that serve as a defense mechanism.
• Size: Males are slightly larger than females in size and weight.

Life History

• Name Origin: The term "porcupine" derives from the old French word porcespin, meaning "thorn pig."
• Adaptations: Despite their size and awkward appearance, porcupines are adept climbers and typically reside in hollows within tree trunks, often well above the ground. Research indicates they have natural antibiotics in their skin to help prevent infections if they accidentally impale themselves.
• Vision and Behavior: Porcupines are near-sighted and primarily rely on their sense of smell for navigation. They are generally slow movers when searching for food and water and tend to be nocturnal. Their quills protect them from most predators, with fishers being one of the few that dare to attack.
• Winter Behavior: Unlike many mammals, porcupines do not hibernate in the winter but remain close to their dens throughout the season.

At Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller

Visitors to the park may spot porcupines while exploring the trails around dawn and dusk. There are confirmed porcupine dens within the park, leading to sightings throughout the year.

Safety Note

When visiting the park with pets, it's important to follow safety guidelines to prevent unwanted encounters with porcupines. Keeping your pets on a 6ft leash is crucial, as their curiosity can lead them into risky situations with these creatures, which are well-defended with their quills. Always stay aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the park.