Hedgehogs and Porcupines

[deckardcanine]

Hedgehogs and porcupines both have sharp quills;
However, they’re hardly the same.
While porcupines flourish in trees, grass, and deserts,
The hedgehog is true to its name,
Preferring to nest under lush vegetation
In hedgerows, parks, gardens, and farms.
The porcupine’s quills are much longer and prone
To detachment, which typically harms
Its attackers more badly. It also has six times
The average hedgehog quill count.
When threatened, it won’t just curl up in a ball;
There’s a tail-based offensive to mount.
The hedgehog’s much smaller, its lifespan much shorter,
And sports a triangular face,
Not round, and its feet aren’t as wide or long-clawed
To ascend an arboreal place.
The hedgehog will sleep through the winter and eat
Little animals, not only plants.
That’s all I should need if I see a quilled critter;
Hope someday I’m given the chance.