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Ongoing updates and improvements

Paignton Zoo welcomes two new Cape porcupines

Paignton Zoo is thrilled to announce the arrival of two new Cape porcupines – Hystrix africaeaustralis – from Lotherton Zoo in North Yorkshire. The exciting new residents, a male named ‘Comet’ and a female named ‘Lulu’, will be settling into their new home in the former tapir enclosure, located opposite the Queen’s Grove picnic area.

Cape porcupines are the largest rodents found in sub-Saharan Africa, easily identified by their distinctive quills that cover most of their bodies. These fascinating animals are herbivores, feeding on a variety of plants, roots, and fruits. They are also excellent climbers, using their strong claws to navigate trees and termite mounds.

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Sam Gray, Team Leader of Mammals, commented:

“We are delighted to welcome these two Cape porcupines to Paignton Zoo. Their arrival is part of our ongoing commitment to providing a stimulating and enriching environment for our animals, while also helping to educate visitors about this remarkable species.”

The former tapir enclosure has been specially adapted to meet the needs of the Cape porcupines, with plenty of enrichment opportunities and a spacious area for them to explore. Comet and Lulu will be on show to the public as soon as they arrive, so visitors will be able to see the new arrivals straight away.

The introduction of Cape porcupines is part of Paignton Zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts. The species is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but habitat loss and hunting are potential threats. By educating visitors about these animals, Paignton Zoo hopes to raise awareness of the importance of conservation.

To learn more about Cape porcupines, please click here.


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