Porcupine

A porcupine is a rodent characterized by a coat of sharp spines, or quills, that defend it from predators. These quills are modified hairs coated with a hard sheath of keratin and are loosely attached, detaching easily upon contact. Porcupines are typically nocturnal, herbivorous animals that inhabit various environments, including forests, grasslands, and deserts across North and South America, Asia, and Africa. Their diet consists primarily of bark, twigs, roots, fruits, and leaves. They have strong claws for climbing and digging and exhibit a relatively slow, deliberate movement on the ground. The name derives from the Latin words 'porcus' (pig) and 'spina' (thorn). They are often solitary animals, except during mating season.

Porcupine meaning with examples

• The hiker gasped when a porcupine waddled across his path, its quills gleaming ominously in the late afternoon sun. He cautiously altered his route, giving the spiny creature a wide berth, remembering tales of dogs foolish enough to encounter them. He knew the quills could inflict painful wounds and could lead to infection. He made sure he could easily distinguish any possible encounters with one as he progressed along his chosen path, feeling grateful for his experience.
• During a nature documentary, the narrator described the porcupine's unique defense mechanism, showing close-up footage of the quills. The quills were triggered by the slightest contact, acting like a self-defense mechanism. The footage captured how predators learn quickly to avoid this spiky trap. The animal's ability to survive and thrive in a variety of environments was impressive. He saw this animal as a crucial part of its habitat.
• The farmer discovered his prize-winning apple orchard had been raided overnight by a hungry porcupine. The marks on the fallen apples, accompanied by tracks, revealed the culprit and a new addition to the farm pest. The farmer decided on a new course of action to protect his crop. He carefully constructed a new fence to stop the porcupine from gaining access, hoping to deter future nocturnal visits. The farmer made sure to leave the animal undisturbed as it seemed to simply need to eat.
• The artist's latest sculpture was inspired by the formidable porcupine. He meticulously crafted a detailed representation of the animal, complete with textured quills. He hoped to portray both the beauty and the defensive nature of the animal. The artwork aimed to be both stunning and thought-provoking, a tribute to the animal's resilience. The artist hoped to create a piece that would start a conversation.