Brevard Zoo has added a new animal resident to its meerkat habitat. Named Loki, the Cape porcupine arrived from another zoo accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Brevard Zoo’s animal care team will slowly introduce Loki to his new habitat mates. In the meantime, the zoo hopes visitors enjoy getting to know one-year-old Loki while the zoo learns about possible new additions to the meerkat mob from the Species Survival Plan. The space will allow everyone their own space if they prefer and keep any potential adverse interactions minimal. Cape porcupines are the largest species of porcupine in the world and the largest species of rodent in their natural range of Africa.
Meet Our New Cape Porcupine
We are introducing the newest addition to our animal family – the Cape Porcupine! We are thrilled to announce that this fascinating animal has joined us in our wildlife sanctuary. This article will examine this exciting species, its characteristics, habitat, and diet.
Physical Characteristics
Cape porcupines are giant rodents found in Southern Africa. They have a distinctive appearance, with long, sharp quills covering their body, except for their underbelly. They mostly have brownish-yellow fur, and their quills can be up to 50cm long. Cape Porcupines can weigh up to 23kgs, and their length can reach 1.2 meters.
Habitat
Cape Porcupines are found in savannas, grasslands, and forests of southern and central Africa. They prefer living in rocky terrains, creating dens by digging deep burrows. These burrows serve as their homes and a shelter for the porcupines when they are not looking for food.
Diet
Cape Porcupines are herbivores that feed on roots, tubers, bark, fruits, and vegetables. They have strong teeth capable of breaking through hard-shelled nuts. They also use their sharp quills to dig into the ground while foraging for food.
Behavior
Cape Porcupines are solitary animals, and they are primarily active at night. They are generally peaceful creatures and will not attack unless they are threatened. When faced with danger, the Cape Porcupine will erect and rattle its quills as a warning.
Benefit to the ecosystem.
Cape Porcupines are crucial to the ecosystem because they help cultivate the soil by digging deep burrows, which allow water to penetrate, promoting vegetation growth. They also distribute plant seeds by carrying them in their quills.
Conclusion
We are grateful to welcome the Cape Porcupine into our wildlife sanctuary, and we look forward to watching it thrive and contribute to the ecosystem. If you can visit our sanctuary, say hello to our new Cape Porcupine and learn more about this incredible animal!
