The porcupine (Hystrix cristata)

It is a rodent mammal of the family Hystricidae. These animals are mainly nocturnal and very shy, so much so that during full moon nights they carefully avoid open spaces where they could be easily spotted. During the day, they rest in rock crevices or in burrows that they dig in the ground thanks to the strong claws of their front legs, or by occupying shelters of other animals.

During the winter, if the weather is harsh, the animal does not leave its burrow, although the species is not known to hibernate. When the animal is frightened or excited, it simultaneously raises the quills and hairs on its nape, giving the impression of being much larger and sturdier than it actually is. The quills are loosely attached at the root and remain embedded in the skin of a potential attacker. If the threat persists, the porcupine starts to stomp its feet loudly on the ground and shake its tail equipped with rattle quills. Finally, if cornered, it charges the attacker, with potentially lethal results.