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Nature Reserve
Where is Fernkloof?
History of Fernkloof
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Fernkloof
Hermanus
South Africa
Donations
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Hystrix africaeaustralis
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Fernkloof Nature Reserve Where is Fernkloof? History of Fernkloof |
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Contact Information Fernkloof Hermanus South Africa Donations |
DescriptionLarge rodent weighing 12-15kg and 84-86cm in length. Upper parts of body covered in long black and white spines and sharp, stout quills. A long crest of black and white bristly hair runs from the top of the head to the shoulders and the tail is armed with a 'rattle' of hollow, open-ended quills. Rest of body covered in coarse black hair. The short sturdy legs have strong digging claws. Nocturnal, solitary or in pairs, and resting in caves or holes in the ground. When threatened it rattles its tail, raises its quills and backs into its adversary. It feeds on bulbs, tubers, roots, wild fruit and bark. Will also chew on bones. |
 30 September - 3 October 2010
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