Body: Porcupines have a stocky, cylindrical body with short legs and a long tail. Their bodies are covered in quills, which are modified hairs. The quills are sharp and barbed, and can be up to 3 inches long.
Head: Porcupines have a blunt snout with a small mouth. Their eyes are small and dark brown. They have long, pointy ears that are lined with fur.
Legs: Porcupines have four legs, each with five toes. Their feet are padded and covered in fur, which helps them to walk quietly.
Tail: Porcupines have a long, bushy tail that is covered in quills. The tail is used for balance and defense.
Quills: Porcupines are best known for their quills. Quills are modified hairs that are made of keratin, the same protein that makes up human nails. Quills are hollow and flexible, and can be up to 3 inches long. They are sharp and barbed, and can easily penetrate the skin. Porcupines can control the movement of their quills, and can raise and lower them at will.
Coloration: Porcupines vary in color from black and brown to white and gray. They may also have patches of orange, yellow, or red.
Size: Porcupines range in size from 2 to 3 feet long, and can weigh up to 35 pounds.