Hystrix africaeaustralis

(Peters, 1852)

Vernacular names
English : Cape Porcupine
French : Porc-épic du Cap

Classification
Class : Mammalia
Order : Rodentia
Family : Hystricidae
Notes : No subspecies known. Former subspecies zuluensis sometimes considered still valid.

Identification
World’s largest porcupine species reaching a body length of 81 cm for a weight up to 3 kg. Large head with small ears and eyes. Very thick and long spines on back. Hairs dark brown to black. Spines have white and black barring.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in the southern half of Africa, from Uganda and DR Congo to South Africa. Lives in arid grasslands and scrubland with rocky outcrops, to 2000 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species remains globally common in its large range. Locally, hunting does occur but the populations appear to remain stable.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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