The world’s prickliest baby has been born.
The little porcupine – or porcupette – came into the world covered in tiny quills.
And the youngster, a male, has delighted experts because he was unexpected.
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He is the second offspring of dad Tiombe and mum Umlilo.
Porcupettes are born with a full set of quills, but they are soft and moist, making it easier for the mother to give birth.
Immediately after birth, the quills harden in the air, becoming prickly and protecting the baby porcupine.
The quills are a key defence mechanism for porcupines, deterring predators with their sharpness and ability to detach easily.
The little porcupette, who was born at Port Lympne Reserve, Hythe, Kent, is yet to be named, as reported by What’s The Jam.
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A Port Lympne spokesperson said: “This is the second successful birth for the pair in quick succession, with their first porcupette, a female, born in December 2024.
Typically, porcupines have only one litter per year, consisting of one to three offspring, making this second arrival so soon an exciting and slightly unexpected surprise for the team.
“The animal care team is closely monitoring the new arrival and reporting that the whole family is doing well.
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“As nocturnal creatures, the porcupines tend to be less active during the day, often sleeping and becoming more lively in the afternoons.
“This delightful birth underscores Port Lympne’s ongoing commitment to the conservation and care of a diverse range of animal species.”
The animal care team added the baby, and the rest of the family was doing well.
The animals are native to central and southern Africa and mostly eat fruit and roots.
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