A Rare Encounter On The Streets Of Aba.

Everyday presents us with opportunities to explore and appreciate the beauty and wonders of nature around, whether it's the sounds of birds, the lush green vegetation, colorful flowers or fascinating creatures. Just by taking a moment to look around, whether it's at a nearby park, backyards and surroundings, a walk around the neighborhood or even on the streets, you'd be amazed by the fascinating things you'll find.

During a recent market run at Ekeoha market, Aba, popularly known as Shopping Center, I spotted a rare sight - a live porcupine locally called (ebiogwu) on the street. I've only seen this fascinating creature on books and TV's alone, especially on NatGeo Channel, so you can imagine how thrilled I'd be to see one up close.

Actually, the porcupine's unique quills was what caught my attention, and I hastened to where it was for a better view. I was amazed by its colorful and strong quills, which I later got to know that they use them as defense objects against predators. Interesting...

The owner said that they do so by releasing or shooting the quills at any predator on sight to protect themselves. He stressed that the quills are dangerous, and can cause great harm to anyone or animal they stick on.

The porcupine sat very quietly observing it's environment but when the owner handled it, it made a kind of growl sound - like that of an angry dog, and then spreaded its quills, just like the peacock does.
The difference here is that the peacock spreads its tails to show off the vibrant colors but the porcupine does so to protect itself from any attack.

Now the interesting thing about porcupines is that the quills or spikes are actually their hairs. As they grow up, the hair turn to quills, modification, sort of.

When The owner further said that porcupines are generally nocturnal animals and can feed on plants, fruits, etc. This particular one was feeding on potato as you can see in the photo.

Porcupines are indeed one-of-a-kind creature and I'm grateful for the opportunity to encounter one live, no longer on the screens.

Have you ever seen a porcupine in person before?

Author's Photos

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