What to do if you find an injured or orphaned porcupine
About Porcupines
The North American Porcupine is a common sight throughout most of Canada, from the eastern provinces to the west coast. Thanks to their remarkable adaptability, they can thrive in a variety of habitats, ranging from open tundra to desert chaparral. They are mainly nocturnal, meaning it’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of these prickly creatures crossing the road at night. Despite their lumbering gait, they possess impressive climbing abilities and can scale trees with ease to evade predators.
The porcupine has a distinctive appearance, with quills covering much of its body, making it easy to spot in the wild. Although they are usually quite gentle creatures, their quills, which are modified hairs, are an amazing defense mechanism. Porcupines cannot “throw” their quills as is commonly believed, but their tails are quick and can easily attach the quills to flesh.
Encountering Porcupines
If you encounter a porcupine, it's important to keep a safe distance and avoid startling them. Porcupines are generally not aggressive, but they can become defensive if they feel threatened.
Do not approach or attempt to touch the porcupine, as their quills are sharp and can easily become embedded in your skin. If you have pets with you, keep them on a leash or under close supervision to prevent them from getting too close to the porcupine.
If you find a porcupine in your yard or garden, it's best to leave it alone and allow it to move on naturally. If the porcupine is causing damage to your property, consider installing barriers or using other non-harmful deterrents to keep them away.
Porcupines in trouble
If you come across an injured or orphaned porcupine, there are several things that you can do to help:
If you encounter an orphaned porcupine, it is important to determine whether the animal is truly orphaned before taking any action. Sometimes, porcupine mothers will leave their babies alone for extended periods of time while they search for food. If you come across a baby porcupine, monitor the animal from a distance for several hours to see if the mother returns.
If you need to handle the porcupine, do NOT use a towel. Use a board or other sturdy object to slowly herd the porcupine into a container.
Once you have contained the animal, place it in a secure and well-ventilated container. A large pet carrier or a cardboard box with air holes can be used for transport.
Seek assistance from a wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals have the knowledge and resources to provide the proper care and treatment for injured or orphaned porcupines.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of these fascinating creatures.
More info on porcupines
“Porcupine Natural History,” Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation
“How to not get pricked by a North American porcupine,” Popular Science
“What To Do If You Find Sick or Injured Non-Carnivores,” Tufts Wildlife Clinic