Quilled porcupine. It may be hard to believe, but yes, sometimes porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) use their quills against other porcupines. This video was shot in Forest Grove, Montana. I saw this porcupine as I was driving by and wanted to take some photos. I noticed another porcupine (not pictured) walking away. The remaining porcupine was just sitting there, breathing heavy and giving a sad sounding cry. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that the porcupine got quilled, likely by the other one that was walking away. I am wondering if there was a mating incident that went bad or whether it was another sort of dispute.
Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACE, is the owner of Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. He helps people restore their balance with nature through publishing, training, consulting, and the internet. He has published numerous articles in trade and academic publications available at {Stephen’s Academia.edu Page} along with several books {WCC Store}). Listen to his podcast “Living the Wild Life” at {Pest Geek Podcast}. Please subscribe to {Stephen’s YouTube Channel} He is a sought after speaker and trainer. If you would like to have Stephen speak at your event or use his consultation services, send an e-mail to wildlifecontrolconsultant@gmail.com. Copyright All postings are the property of Stephen M. Vantassel and Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. Text (not images) may be reprinted in non-profit publications provided that the author and website URL is included. If images wish to be used, explicit and written permission must be obtained from Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC.