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How to Feed Newborn Porcupines

Although keeping porcupines as pets is illegal in most states, zookeepers, those who rehabilitate wildlife and people under the direction of animal control are permitted to feed newborn porcupines. Born in April and May, newborn porcupines come out fully developed with their eyes open and their quills wet and soft. The quills harden within hours, providing the young with a natural defense mechanism. Porcupines typically give birth to one porcupette, but they can have twins. However, the mother typically abandons the youngest twin, and it will die without human intervention.

Things You'll Need

Eyedropper or small bottle
Formula or animal milk
2 bowls or dishes
Baby food or cooked vegetables
Leafy plants

Instructions

- 1
  Use an eyedropper or small bottle to feed the porcupette formula or animal milk. Newborn porcupines nurse for the first three months.
- 2
  Mix baby food or cooked vegetables in the milk or formula after the porcupette is 1 week old. Place the mixture in a shallow bowl or plate. Feed the porcupette this type of food for the first three months.
- 3
  Supplement the cooked food throughout the spring and summer with small twigs and ground plants, such as clover or dandelions.
- 4
  Restock the food dishes often, and do not leave milk sitting out for more than 1 hour.
- 5
  Supply a bowl of clean water and change the water at least once a day or more often, if contaminated.

Animals & Science