About Sphiggurus mexicanus (Kerr, 1792)
This species of porcupine, Sphiggurus mexicanus, has a pale head and a dark-colored body. Its head-and-body length ranges from approximately 320 to 457 mm (12.6 to 18.0 in), and its tail measures between 200 and 358 mm (8 to 14 in). The maximum recorded weight for this porcupine is about 2.6 kg (6 lb). Its body is covered in short yellowish spines, which are almost entirely hidden by the long black body hair. Sometimes, the spines on the shoulders and back can be seen sticking through the hair. In contrast to the hairy body, the head has no hair, exposing its yellowish spines. The snout is pink, broad, and bulbous, and the eyes are small. The tail is prehensile, spiny, and broad at the base, tapering to a point. Sphiggurus mexicanus differs from Rothschild's porcupine (Coendou rothschildi) because Rothschild's porcupine has much more visible spines and does not have a hairy coat. Sphiggurus mexicanus is an arboreal species, and it uses its prehensile tail to grip onto branches. It is nocturnal, and is typically most active during dark nights. During the day, it hides in a hollow tree, on a leafy branch, or in clumps of bamboo in highland habitats. Since it uses the same hiding spot every day, a pile of droppings builds up there, creating a strong odor. Its diet is made up of buds, young leaves, fruits, and seeds, and it especially favors fruiting trees from the genera Inga, Cecropia, Ficus, and Brosimum. Individual porcupines usually live alone and are silent, but they become more vocal during the breeding season, producing screams and yowls. Females typically give birth to a single offspring at a time.
