Porcupine hunting in Tanzania

Porcupines are Tanzania’s largest rodent, also known as the African Crested Porcupine. Their back is covered by long (12 inch/30cm) black and white quills that can be raised as a defence mechanism against predators or when threatened, making the animal look double its size. These sharp quills can easily be dislodged when attacked by a predator and become embedded in their faces and claws. Added to this shield, Porcupines further intimidate approaching danger by making a rattling noise, shaking the hollow quills in their tail. Porcupines are found in central and northern Tanzania. These mostly solitary animals are nocturnal foraging mostly at night making for a difficult hunt in a country that does not allow any form of night hunting. Using their powerful digging claws, they are able to dig for roots, bulbs and tubers. They also feed on fallen fruit and even gnaw on tree bark. With an enlarged appendix containing microorganisms, they are able to break down undigested plant fibres. They often visit Bushpig, Leopard and Lion baiting sites and will eat carrion or gnaw on bones, a practice known as osteophagia. Porcupines are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN. However, if trophies are imported to the United States, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has special rodent import regulations that concern the importation of these trophies.