Cape porcupine
Scientific name: Hystrix africaeaustralis
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
Dark brown to black coat with conspicuous white quills on back and rump; face, legs, and underside darker. Males slightly larger and more robust than females; quills more prominent and erectile.
Size and weight
Males 12–18 kg, females 10–15 kg; body length 60–80 cm (excluding tail).
Habitat
Rocky outcrops, scrubland, and semi-arid terrain from sea level to 2,000 m elevation. Prefers areas with rocky kopjes, dense bush, and accessible burrow systems.
Distribution
Southern Africa from southern Angola through Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa to Cape Province. Favors rocky savannas and semi-desert scrub.
Diet
Roots, tubers, bark, fallen fruit, and vegetation; seasonal preference for cultivated crops (maize, squash) when available.
Behaviour
Nocturnal and crepuscular; solitary or in pairs. Moves slowly and deliberately on ground; primarily terrestrial but capable of climbing. Produces audible grunts and quill-rattling when threatened.
Hunting tips
Look for tracks (5-toed prints, ~5 cm wide) and distinctive droppings (cylindrical pellets, 1–2 cm long, often in latrines near burrows). Approach rocky outcrops at dusk; move slowly and listen for rustling. Use wind to your advantage and stay alert for quill-rattle warnings.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 10 countries in Huntify.
Names in other languages
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.