[Hystrix cristata]
Habitat: Forest, savanna, shrubland, grassland and rocky areas
Length: 25-29″
Weight: 20+ lbs (up to 60)
Average Lifespan: 15 years
Gestation Period: 107-112 days
Number of Young: 1-4
Conservation Status: Least Concern
– Largest porcupine on earth
– Will stamp its feet, whirr the quills, and charge the disturber back end first trying to stab the enemy with the thicker, shorter quills
– In defense, known to have killed lions, leopards, hyenas, even humans
– Very seldom climb trees, but can swim.
– Nocturnal and monogamous