  PorcupinesAmong the largest rodents in the world, porcupines are found in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas and are known for their coats of sharp quills that defend them from predators. Though porcupines\' quills take various forms depending on the species, all are modified hairs coated with thick plates of a tough structural protein called keratin that makes them needle-sharp. Contrary to popular belief, porcupines are not capable of shooting their quills. How, then, do they defend themselves? More... Discuss |
';
if (document.getElementById('tfd_article_div'))
document.getElementById('tfd_article_div').innerHTML=tfd_html_article;
else
document.write(tfd_html_article);
//Copyright 2009 Farlex, Inc.