Location:

Next to Kinkajou (old outdoor sloth exhibit)

Fennel, Jane, and Mary, arrived at the Phx Zoo Jan. 2023 from the Rosamond Giffiord Zoo in Syracuse, NY. They are sisters from different litters.
Mary was transferred to another zoo in Spring 2026.

Largest species of porcupine
Found in sub-Saharan Africa
They prefer rocky hills and outcrops, as they must have shelter during the day. They often take shelter in caves or aardvark holes.
Rodent family
Females are larger than males
Solitary or live in small family groups
Typically nocturnal, but may be seen during the day
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years (20 years in managed care)
Constantly chewing roots, bark, bulbs, and fallen fruit
Quills are modified hairs coated with plates of keratin
The white and black crest of spines and quills can be erected at will to make the animal look enormous and threatening.
Spines on the tail are hollow and make a rattling sound when shaken.
Because of dangerous anatomy, females initiate copulation by presenting to the males.
Cannot shoot quills, but will run backward to stick prey
Quills are 1-13 inches long and are relatively hollow
They are excellent swimmers, quills making them more buoyant
IUCN: Least Concern