Living Desert welcomes 2 porcupine babies to the zoo
The Living Desert has two new additions to their growing Zoo, 2 baby African Crested porcupines were born late last month. Living Desert officials say that a male and female were born on July 22nd, to Skittles and Nusura, the babies parents.
“It’s always fun to welcome new additions to The Living Desert, especially when they’re as fascinating as these animals,” said Allen Monroe, President/CEO of The Living Desert. “Crested porcupines are extremely inquisitive creatures with unique personalities and characteristics. We love that about them.”
The two babies are currently being hand reared by staff. At least one of them will go on to be a part of the zoo’s educational outreach program. The Living Desert currently has seven of the animals on hand: four males and three females. Nusura and AJ are on exhibit in the Africa section of the zoo, while Skittles is in holding, and Linus and Tootsie are being showcased in Wildlife Wonders, educational shows.
The African Crested porcupine is one of the continent’s largest rodents, with adults growing up to 29 inches long and weighing anywhere from 18 to 51 pounds. Female crested porcupines typically have one litter per year. They are vegetarians by nature, feeding on wild roots, bulbs, berries and other plants. The quills on their necks and backs can range up to 20 inches long and make a rattling sound when the animal feels threatened. Some quills can be erected into a crest, which starts at the top of the head and extends to the shoulder.
The Living Desert is open daily 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through September 30, with last admission at 1 p.m. For more information call (760) 346-5694 or visit www.LivingDesert.org.
