One evening this week, a young porcupine was discovered meandering on the lawn in the backyard. I’ve seen small porcupines on the lawn before, but never so close to the house. At first glance, this little one appeared soft and fluffy, like a cuddly stuffed toy one would pick up to snuggle. Its manner was certainly docile, but appearances can be deceiving. Longer hairs hide the quills on a porcupine’s backside, especially when viewed from the front.
Porcupines are born, only one at a time, in April or May, after a gestational period of about seven months. Even though it’s able to defend itself once its quills dry, a few hours after birth, the single young porcupine stays close to its mother for the first summer.
Once it sensed our presence on the back deck, this little one raised its backside and headed towards the woods.
Its white tail swayed back and forth as it went on its way, likely back to the arms of its awaiting mother.
Text and photographs copyright Amy-Lynn Bell 2014
Flandrum Hill 
what a gift that you got to meet porcupine! thanks for sharing your story & pictures 🙂
Wren, such sightings truly are a gift 🙂
Porcupines are not fleet of foot, but Nature has given them protection. These photos are charming, Amy-Lynn, and the information good, too. Seven months! Almost as long as — AS long as some human babies!
Pamela, that long gestation period is really something, isn’t it? I wonder why it’s so long compared to most other mammals. I also found it odd that only one baby was born each year. It’s amazing how the species has survived considering how often we see these creatures as roadkill.
They’re endearing little creatures. Lovely photos:)
Colleen, who knew young porcupines could be so charming! I warned my grandsons NOT to try to pick it up if they saw it in the woods.
Great pictures of your little visitor.
Thanks Bonnie. I was lucky to be able to get so close to it. It was right next to the back deck where I had a great vantage point.
So very cute. I’m glad Sooki wasn’t there.
Me too Sybil. Dogs and porcupines are a bad mix. Not sure if feline pets would choose to engage with them. Having a porcupine in the yard might deter the neighborhood cats from visiting 😉
Oh how beautiful. I’m so pleased you were there to see this young porcupine. They tend to keep so well hidden here.
What an adorable little creature – you got some wonderful pictures. Look but don’t touch! 🙂