North african crested porcupine

Description

They are nocturnal, living and being raised in burrows or caves. They are solitary gatherers that travel large distances in search of food. They are large-sized rodents, with small eyes and the back partially covered with sharp spines. The spines at the back of the body and on their hindquarters are long, measuring 30-40 cm, situated between other thicker and shorter ones with black and white strips. 

Ethology

They are monogamous and they mate at night. The females usually only have one litter of 1-3 pups that are born in the wet season, after 112 days of gestation in a chamber lined with grass inside the burrow. The pups are born with their eyes open and the spines on their backs are soft. The pups have 5 white stripes on their sides which disappear after four weeks. 

Interesting facts

Their spines are a very effective form of protection from predators such as lions, leopards or hyenas, as the spines can cause them serious injuries. They are hunted for their meat or because they are considered pests, as they damage crops and fields. In Morocco they are used for traditional medicine and witchcraft, and they are very commonly sold in local markets.