07.24.2021 Utah Outdoors: Wildlife
North American Porcupine
Erethizon dorsatum
Contrary to popular beliefs, porcupines cannot shoot their quills. This is a good thing as they are common in Utah!
North American porcupine
The North American porcupine, Erethizon dorsatum, is common in Utah, where it can be found in a variety of habitats including; coniferous forest, mixed forest areas, riparian zones, deserts, and shrubland. It is actually a large rodent. Hollow trees, hollow logs, and small caves are used as dens. The North American porcupine does not hibernate, they remain active year-round feeding on the needles and bark of coniferous trees during the winter.
- Length: 24" to 36"
- Weight: 8 to 40 lbs.
Photo Credit: Bryant Shoblom
Where to Find Them
The below list of places are great places to possibly see the North American porcupine.
Useful Links:
The below links contain further information.