What is bahia porcupine?

The Bahia porcupine is a species of porcupine found in South America, specifically in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. It is a medium-sized porcupine with a body length of around 60 to 70 cm and can weigh up to 12 kg. Its notable features include its long and sharp quills, which it uses for self-defense. Its fur is dark brown to black in color, and it has a white crest of quills on its head.

The Bahia porcupine is primarily nocturnal and arboreal, spending most of its time in trees. It is an herbivore, feeding on fruits, leaves, and bark. It is also known to gnaw on wood, possibly to keep its teeth sharp.

The Bahia porcupine is listed as a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and hunting. Its forest habitat is constantly being cut down for human activities like agriculture and logging. Additionally, it is hunted for its meat and quills, which are often used in traditional medicine. Conservation efforts are being made to protect and preserve the species' remaining habitat.