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Baby porcupine makes a welcome appearance

25^th July 2010

A baby African Crested Porcupine was born recently at Durrell wildlife park and has been a welcome sight for both Mum and the keepers.

Earlier this year the female called Snuffit lost her mate due to illness. Keepers were concerned about her being alone because generally this species live in social groups.

A few days after the loss of her mate Spike, keepers noticed a change in Snuffit’s behaviour but it was not related to the missing male. Her appetite increased and the keepers’ sneaky suspicion was confirmed when a trip up to the veterinary centre resulted in a clear ultrasound picture showing a well developed baby.

Snuffit was moved to a quiet area to allow her some privacy prior to the birth and for the keepers to keep a close eye on her reactions after becoming a new mum.

On Friday 9th July a delighted keeper entered the enclosure to find a healthy baby snuggling up to its mum. Snuffit seems to have taken to motherhood well and the newly named, Pip, has been suckling and trotting around after its mum happily.

Mark Brayshaw, Head of Animal Collection said “The arrival of this infant is a welcome addition to our animal collection and our female porcupine of course. She can now express a full range of maternal behaviour and some social behaviours, all the more important since the loss of her mate. The infant is very attractive and we hope our visitors will enjoy the opportunity to observe the pair here at the park”. 

Today the building where Snuffit and Pip reside is opening up for visitors so the public can view the prickly pair.

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