The porcupine is the prickliest of rodents. Its Latin name means “quill pig”, which is the regional American name of the porcupine.

There are more than two dozen porcupine species, and all boast a coat of needle-like quills to give predators a sharp reminder that this animal is no easy meal.

Some quills, like those of Africa’s crested porcupine, are nearly a foot long.

As part of our forest theme, we created porcupines using toothpicks and potatoes. Students strengthened their hand-eye coordination and counting skills while creating the perfect prickly friend!