When a pride of lions stumbled on a porcupine family, they rushed in hoping for an easy meal. However, a prickly dilemma greeted them.
Sheldon McCabe submitted this footage to Latest Sighting. He filmed it while visiting Mkuze Game Reserve in South Africa.
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Porcupine family ahead
A sight that would delight any wildlife lover greets us as Sheldon’s video begins. On the road ahead of him, a family of four Cape porcupines (Hystrix africaeaustralis) is going about their business.
These large rodents are typically nocturnal, making the sighting all the more special. However, it is about to get even better.
Curious cat investigates
Suddenly, a young male lion emerges from the bushes alongside Sheldon. Noticing the porcupines moving ahead of it, it trots forward, hoping for an easy meal
Now, a porcupine’s sole defence consists of an array of densely packed needle-sharp quills covering most of its body. But will it be sufficient against Africa’s apex predator?
Double trouble
The porcupines’ problems seem to multiply when a lioness joins the scene. However, they work together to confront the overwhelming odds.
Instead of running, the porcupines put their heads together, thereby presenting the lions with a spiny, impenetrable wall. And judging by the lions’ tentative reaction, they have encountered porcupines before.
Prickly proposition
Consequently, we see the lions at a loss. No matter which way they approach, they meet the threat of a painful impalement.
Interestingly, porcupine quills are made of densely compressed hair covered in hard keratin. Additionally, their surface is covered in microscopic barbs that make them both difficult and painful to remove.
Subsequently, the two lions decide it is better to stay well away. Even so, the porcupines continuously growl and rattle their quills, discouraging a renewed attack.
While the porcupines maintain their defensive stance, one cannot help but feel for the lions. It is like having a favourite meal covered in six-inch nails.
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Seizing the initiative
Frustrated, the lions refuse to leave the porcupines in peace. Amazingly, it is the porcupines that take the initiative.
When the lions get too close, one of them reverses at pace towards the cats.
Thankfully, the lions deftly avoid being stabbed. Aside from the pain, quill wounds come with the threat of a cripping infection due to the dirt they carry.
More lions, same solution
Even the arrival of two more lions does nothing to change the status quo. Wisely, the porcupines remain in their laager-like huddle.
As they do, the lions look on while the traffic starts to pile up. Sensibly, the porcupines stick together. Were they to flee, they’d only make matters worse for themselves.
Gradually, the lions realise their folly and begin to wander off. If you’ve ever wondered what a thwarted lioness looks like, this is it.