Hedgehogs and Porcupines
Hedgehogs and porcupines may look similar, but they are different animals. While they are both small mammals that are covered in spiked hair or fur, there are some distinct differences between hedgehogs and porcupines.
Physical Differences
The main way to tell whether an animal is a hedgehog or a porcupine is by looking at the type of spikes it has. Hedgehogs have short spines that are stiff, but the ends of the spines are made from flexible keratin, which means that they can curl into tight balls for protection. Porcupines have much longer quills that are far sharper than the spines of hedgehogs, and their quills cannot be curled.
In terms of size, hedgehogs are usually around 6-12 inches long, while porcupines can grow to be up to 35 inches long.
Behavioural Differences
The behaviours of hedgehogs and porcupines also differ. Hedgehogs are generally more active during the nighttime hours, while porcupines are mostly active in the daytime.
Hedgehogs tend to be very solitary animals and can be cautious around humans, while porcupines usually live in large family groups and can be quite docile. They are also more tolerant of humans, which means they are often kept as pets.
Dietary Differences
The diets of hedgehogs and porcupines also vary. Hedgehogs mostly eat insects, whereas porcupines eat a variety of plants. Porcupines are also known to eat bark, roots, and even small animals, whereas hedgehogs will rarely eat anything other than insects.
Conclusion
To sum up, hedgehogs and porcupines may look similar, but they are two distinct animals that have different physical features, behaviours, and diets. While they both have sharp spikes to protect themselves, hedgehogs have shorter spines that they can curl into a ball, while porcupines have much longer quills that cannot be curled. Hedgehogs also tend to be nocturnal, while porcupines are diurnal. The diets of the two also differ, as hedgehogs mostly eat insects, while porcupines eat a variety of plants.
