Porcupines are slow moving and docile animals. They don’t harm anyone and they are no threat to other animals, unless they are attacked. Armed with thousands of sharp quills, their only defense is to bristle their quills and swing their bodies to jab an attacker in the mouth.

Contrary to the widespread myth, they cannot shoot their quills. They can’t even move quickly so they would be easy prey without them. Their natural reaction is usually to stand their ground or to slowly walk away. They will climb a tree if given the chance.