Common name : Quill pig
Scientific name : Erethizon Dorsaum
Family : Hystricidae, Erethizontidae
Native to : America, Southern Asia, Europe and Africa
Interesting fact : The quills are now being used as hypodermic needle.
Conservation status : Least Concern
They have soft hair which can be grey, brown or white in fur colour, but on their backs, sides, and tails usually mixed with sharp quills. These quills typically lie flat until a porcupine is threatened, and can easily detach when touched. Native Americans used their fur for head-dresses. Their flesh is a delicacy.
