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North American Porcupine
Erethizon dorsatum
Order | Rodentia |
Family | Erethizontidae |
Also known as: Porcupine
Fast Facts |
Distribution in Yukon | |
Length | 75 cm | ![]() |
Weight | 10 kg | |
Lifespan | 9-10 years | |
Habitat | ![]() |
|
Predators | Wolverines, wolves, Fishers | |
Yukon | S5 (Secure) | |
Global | G5 (Secure) | |
Yukon population estimate: Not determined |
Description
- Large rodent-shaped body covered in sharp quills and long hairs
- Long, yellow-tipped hair hides the quills that are kept close to the body when not in the defensive position
- Long, curved claws
Behaviour
Porcupines are slow moving animals and can usually be heard shuffling through the forest if you are nearby. When threatened, the porcupine arches its back and draws its quills erect. Though it cannot throw its quills, they dislodge easily when the porcupine thrashes its club-like tail. Barbs on a porcupine’s quills are not poisonous. However, if a quill penetrates an attacker, barbs on the quills are able to swell from the surrounding skin moisture, forcing the quill in deeper which can kill if it causes an infection or the recipient, such as a wolf, is unable to eat or drink.
Diet
Forbs, shrubs and trees, as well as antlers and bones for their mineral content
Sights and sounds
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Alternative content - radio interview |
Tracks Front: 4.3x3.3 cm Hind: 6.8x4.3 cm |
Sound Screech |
Mammals and People
- Quills are still used to make earrings and to decorate moccasins, jackets, baskets and boxes
Viewing Opportunities
- Porcupines are easy to observe as they are slow to move away and are noticeable when climbing trees, which they frequently do.
- They are often spotted along roadsides because they move slowly, but frequently, making an encounter possible and easy to notice.