Porcupines can be best recognized by the distinctive coat of quills they wear on their backs. Porcupines are part of the rodent family. They live primarily in both deciduous and coniferous forests and woodlands in the western United States, as well as in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

Porcupines are curious creatures. All of the porcupines in the United States are New World porcupines that migrated up from South America. They are mostly solitary creatures that move slowly but are agile climbers. As herbivores, they spend much of their time up high in trees foraging on leaves, pine needles, and bark. Porcupines set aside their solitary ways during their mating time which runs from September through December. About seven months later, the female gives birth to a porcupette. Porcupettes are born with a full set of quills that are soft but harden within hours of birth. By two weeks of age, porcupettes are feeding on green plants, fully weaned by three months, and begin to live independently at six months.

It is commonly believed that porcupines can fling their quills when confronted, but this is a misconception. Porcupine quills are built for easy release, so when a porcupine is in defensive mode, it turns its back toward its aggressor, allowing the quills to release upon contact.

Porcupines venture into residential areas for a surprising reason—they crave salt that they cannot get from their diet of leaves and bark, and there is plenty of it near humans. Some of their favorite sources of salt include car tires that have driven through salted streets, tool handles and boat oars found in sheds, horse saddles, and plywood that is glued with a sodium-based material.

Porcupines are an uncommon home intruder. If one is a regular in your yard, it is likely because of unusual circumstances such as a drought or food shortage.

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Porcupine Removal Near You
Porcupines chewing on wood trim or trees? Porcupines, sometimes called "porkies" or "quill pigs," are heavy-bodied, short-legged, slow, and awkward rodents, with a waddling gait. They rely on their sharp, barbed quills (up to 30,000 per individual) for defense. Call your local Critter Control office today at 1 800-CRITTER for effective porcupine removal and exclusion services.

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Testimonials

Ann Marie
9/29/2023
Brandon from Critter Control did an exceptional job. I was put on the schedule quickly, and he called everyday to let me know the timeframe of his arrival on site. He was thorough, respectful, friendly, professional, and secured my soffits. He also cleaned the soiled insulation in my attic from the raccoon and caught her humanely. I would highly recommend this company!
Joe
9/28/2023
The crew did an excellent job of installing everything to help prevent critters from getting in. Thanks!
Joe
9/28/2023
William is top notch! He is really good at his job. He identifed areas and showed us the signs where critters were able to get in the house, which another company we hired missed. William and the rest of the crew did an excellent job.
Wayne
9/28/2023
Friendly, knowledgeable technician - did the job, reported his findings and on his way.
Jonathon
9/20/2023
Your employees were all professional and kept me informed. It made getting rid of ground hogs much easier to tolerate. Thank you for all of your help.
Troy
9/20/2023
All work performed exactly as requested. Nice job and thanks
Amy
9/20/2023
They have been fantastic to work with. Very satisfied with the office and field staff.
Amy
9/12/2023
Great work! Great communication!
Allison
9/9/2023
Taylor has been great to work with. She's very knowledgeable and efficient. I would definitely recommend your services. Thanks for your help!
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