4 Prickly Questions About The American Porcupine

Covered in hard, sharp, needle-like bristles, the American porcupine is a fascinating creature. Test your knowledge with these fun questions and discover surprising facts about these spiky animals!

1. What are porcupine needles filled with?
   a) Marrow
   b) Blood
   c) Water
   d) Air
2. How many quills does a porcupine have?
   a) About 5,000
   b) About 20,000
   c) About 30,000
   d) More than 60,000
3. What’s the average lifespan of a porcupine in the wild?
   a) 2 to 4 years
   b) 6 to 10 years
   c) 12 to 14 years
   d) 16 to 18 years
4. What do porcupines eat?
   a) Earthworms, frogs, and ferns
   b) Shrubs, tree bark, and plants
   c) Mushrooms, moss, and conifer needles
   d) Insects, rodents, and bird eggs

Answers

1. d) Air – Porcupine quills are hollow, making them light and buoyant, which helps them float.
2. c) About 30,000 – Their quills can grow up to six inches and detach easily when touched.
3. b) 6 to 10 years – Wild porcupines have a good lifespan, which can extend in captivity.
4. b) Shrubs, tree bark, and plants – Porcupines love salty snacks and will chew on sweat-soaked items.

How did you do? Whether you aced it or learned something new, porcupines are sure to leave you intrigued!