Tbilisi Zoo is home to two Indian porcupines, a female and a male named Khrashuna and Khramuna. Their keepers chose the names because the porcupines make funny “crunching” sounds when they eat. Khrashuna is the bolder of the two, while Khramuna is more cautious.
Contrary to popular belief, porcupines are not related to badgers or hedgehogs. Badgers are carnivores, hedgehogs are insectivores, while porcupines are rodents.
Their most distinctive feature is their long, thick quills, which they mainly use for defense. When threatened, their first response is to raise these quills to protect themselves.
Visitors to Tbilisi Zoo can enjoy watching these fascinating creatures and learn more about their unique behaviors and natural history.