African Porcupine

Overview
The African porcupine is the largest rodent in Africa, weighing up to 30 kg and measuring over half a meter long. Its body is covered in long, sharp spines (up to 50 cm) and shorter quills, which it raises to appear larger and more threatening. Tail spines produce a rattling sound when shaken, adding to its defence.
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Primarily nocturnal, porcupines forage at night for roots, tubers, fruits, and bark, occasionally gnawing bones to supplement minerals. They live up to 15 years and often take shelter in caves, burrows, or rocky outcrops.

Porcupines live alone or in small family groups. Females give birth to 1–3 well-developed young after a 3-month gestation. Contrary to myth, they don’t shoot their quills—but can drive them into predators when threatened.