Cape Porcupine
Hystrix africaeaustralis
Points
10
per confirmed sighting
MammalConservation status: Least ConcernCommon to spot
mammals • Hystricidae
Cape Porcupine.
C
Hystrix africaeaustralis
Category
mammals
Family
Hystricidae
Size
Body mass: approximately 14.9 kg (EltonTraits).
Points
10 pts
A closer look
Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding cape porcupine in its natural range.
Overview
How to identify it
Habitat
EltonTraits foraging-stratum classification: ground-dwelling/terrestrial (including aquatic ground-associated coding).
Diet
EltonTraits diet profile: other plant material 80%; fruit 20%.
Behaviour
When to look
EltonTraits activity classification: nocturnal.
Where to see it
South Africa
Namibia
Botswana
Zimbabwe
Zambia
Mozambique
Eswatini
Lesotho
Malawi
AngolaSafety and etiquette
Observe from a safe distance and never handle or feed wildlife.
Verification and sources
1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.