Nolina, the porcupine at the Oregon Zoo, is celebrating her 20th birthday, a rare milestone for her species as they typically only live up to 15 years in the wild. Five years ago, caregivers noticed signs of Nolina slowing down and recommended daily walks to keep her healthy and active. Nolina, along with her regular handler Kristina McMahon, takes brisk walks across the zoo grounds every morning to keep her in good shape. Although her walks are now shorter and she is not as quick as before, Nolina is still moving well for her age.
In addition to her fitness regimen of morning walks, Nolina enjoys treats like corn on the cob, apples, and sweet potatoes. African cape porcupines, among the world’s largest rodents, can grow up to 40 pounds and 2½ feet in length. Their quills or spines, which can grow up to a foot long, are not shot at predators but raised and fanned out as a defense mechanism when they feel frightened or excited. Despite her age, Nolina is doing amazing and continues to enjoy her favorite treats and activities.
The Oregon Zoo’s veterinary staff has been monitoring Nolina closely as she ages, recommending daily walks to help her stay healthy and active. Nolina’s daily walks with handler Kristina McMahon help keep her “looking sharp” and ensure that she is moving around well for her age. Although her walks are now shorter and she may not be as quick as she once was, Nolina is still able to get around pretty well and is thriving at the age of 20, surpassing the typical lifespan of her species in the wild.
African cape porcupines like Nolina are known for their large size and impressive quills or spines, which they use for defense against predators. These animals can grow up to 40 pounds and 2½ feet in length, with quills that can reach up to a foot long. Despite their intimidating appearance, porcupines do not shoot their quills but fan them out defensively when they feel threatened or excited. Nolina’s ability to survive and thrive for 20 years is a testament to the care and attention she receives from the Oregon Zoo staff, who have helped her maintain her health and vitality well beyond the typical lifespan of her species.
Nolina’s daily walks and favorite treats help keep her active and healthy as she celebrates her 20th birthday at the Oregon Zoo. Despite her age, she continues to move well and enjoy her regular routines, thanks to the dedicated care of her handler and the veterinary staff at the zoo. With her impressive size and unique defense mechanisms, Nolina is a shining example of the resilience and adaptability of African cape porcupines in captivity, where they can live longer than their wild counterparts. As Nolina rings in her 20th birthday, she serves as a reminder of the importance of proper care and attention in helping animals thrive and surpass expectations for their species.
