Porcupines are a type of rodent, there are about 30 species of porcupine globally. The porcupine is the prickliest of the rodents; the word ‘porcupine’ is a combination of Latin words “porcus” (pig) and “spina” (thorn).

They are integral members of their ecosystem, being such efficient diggers means they engineer habitats - creating shelter for neighbouring animals, contributing to soil health by aerating it as they dig.

Quills are a type of modified hair; it is a myth that porcupines can shoot their quills – but the quills can easily detach when touched!