East Asian Porcupine
Hystrix brachyura
Species Overview
The East Asian porcupine is one of Hong Kong’s most distinctive mammals, recognised from its distinctive banded quills and build. This species is considered a large rodent, belonging to the Hystricidae family, or Old World porcupines. It resides in Hong Kong’s forests, grasslands, and can often be seen on the fringes of urban areas. Hong Kong's porcupines are largely, rarely seen during the day.
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These porcupines measure between 60 and 90 centimeters in length and weigh 10 to 18 kilograms. Its most recognisable feature is its quills. These spines can grow to as long as 30 centimeters displaying an alternating black-and-white pattern of banding. These can be heard rattling against one another as it walks through an area of heavy vegetation. The porcupine has a dark brown colouration, with its quills distinctly lighter, creating a striped effect when raised in defence.
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As a nocturnal forager, it feeds on roots, tubers, fallen fruits, and bark, occasionally supplementing its diet with carrion or insects for protein. While usually solitary or in small family groups, it communicates through scent marking and vocalisations by grunting or rattling its quills. When threatened, the porcupine raises its quills, and moves aggressively, possibly charging to fend off predators.​​​
Species Distribution
Although not found on Lantau Island, this species is widely distributed across central and southern China, Southeast Asia, and much of Hong Kong. It prefers habitats such as forests, rocky outcrops, and agricultural areas, often taking shelter in caves, hollow trees, or burrows it digs itself. The Hong Kong Biodiversity Information Hub's (HKBIH), Biodiversity Graphic Information System illustrates their diverse spread, using records of occurrence, since 1970.
Image Source: Hong Kong Biodiversity Information Hub
Do's
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Make sure to keep a safe distance and observe quietly. Porcupines are often solitary creatures and may raise their raise quills if startled.
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Stay calm, avoid sudden movements and move slowly if encountered to avoid the porcupine behaving as if threatened.
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Be wary if on a trail or an area with porcupines at night (they’re nocturnal). Avoid shining a light or torch directly at them.
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Report sightings (especially injured porcupines to the relevant authorities) via the Encountering Wildlife HK Community Feedback Form.
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Appreciate their ecological role as seed dispersers and soil aerators, adding value to Hong Kong's natural landscapes.
Dont's
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Make sure not to get too close or try to pet them, their quills are sharp and can detach easily as a defensive adaptation and can cause injury.
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Avoid cornering them into a confined space or blocking their path; they may feel threatened and act defensively if they feel trapped.
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Do not attempt to feed porcupines. Most food you will feed them will do more harm than good to their health and will impact their natural foraging behaviours.
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Do not provoke or throw objects; rattling quills are a sign of a porcupine feeling threatened.
Challenges
Ecologically, the East Asian porcupine plays a valuable role as both a seed disperser and a soil aerator. Its feeding habits promote forest regeneration and maintenance, while its digging loosens and enriches the soil. Porcupines in Hong Kong are scheduled under the It is classified as a species of lesser concern by the IUCN's red list, the species faces threats from habitat loss and hunting in parts of Asia, where its quills are used ornamentally and eaten as a delicacy. In Hong Kong, populations remain stable, though wild dogs have been known to predate upon porcupines. Make sure to remember, the East Asian porcupine is protected under Hong Kong’s Wild Animals Protection Ordinance and should be respected as such.