We came across this cute little fellow while exploring the jungle in the northeastern corner of Costa Rica, near Tortuguero National Park. He was hiding in one of the plants and difficult to see except from one approach. It obviously is a porcupine and our guide told us specifically a Mexican porcupine. Subsequent research revealed it to be a Mexican Hairy Dwarf porcupine.
Mexican Hairy Dwarf porcupines are found from Mexico to Panama and spend most of their lives in trees. They can be found anywhere from lowlands up to 3000 meters in elevation and are primarily nocturnal. These porcupines are small, weighing about 1.5 – 2.5 kg (up to 5.5 pounds), and from a half meter to 80 cm in length (less than a yard).
They seem very cuddly — but don’t fall for it. Those spines can be quite painful!
