Characteristics

Among the most notable features of Coendou porcupines is their unspined prehensile tail. The front and hind feet are also modified for grasping. These limbs all contribute to making this animal an adept climber, an adaptation to living most of their lives in trees. They feed on leaves, shoots, fruits, bark, roots, and buds. They can be pests of plantation crops.  Young are born with soft hair that hardens to quills with age. Adults are slow-moving and will roll into a ball when threatened and on the ground. The record longevity is just over 17 years.