Scientific Name: Hystrix cristata

Found In: Hilly, rocky habitats in sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and Italy.

Size: Grow up to 25 to 29 inches long and weigh from 10 to 25 pounds.

Diet: Root vegetables

Threat Level: There are no major threats to this species. Porcupines have benefited from agricultural development and their destructive feeding habitats have led to them being considered as a problem in some farming areas.

Facts: Cape porcupines are the largest rodent in Africa.

Virginia Zoo Porcupine: male Chompers