Mesker Park Zoo Welcomes Adorable Baby Porcupine

There’s a brand new face at Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, and it’s already stealing hearts.

The zoo has announced the arrival of Pistachio, a baby Cape porcupine born in late March to parents BIC and Cece. The tiny new addition is now settling into life and can already be seen exploring alongside mom.

Meet Pistachio The Zoo’s Newest Baby

According to zoo officials, Pistachio was born on March 30 and is currently spending time in the Children’s Forest area of the zoo.

Visitors may be able to spot the baby closely following their mother, which is typical behavior as young porcupines begin learning how to navigate their environment.

Before Pistachio’s arrival, the zoo’s animal care team performed something pretty unique, the first ultrasound ever conducted on a Cape porcupine in their care.

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What To Know About Cape Porcupines

Cape porcupines are native to the savannahs and grasslands of South Africa and are known as the largest species of porcupine in the world.

Despite their sharp quills, they are not aggressive animals and use their quills primarily for defense.

According to conservation data, Cape porcupines are currently listed as a species of least concern, with a stable population.

Read More: Mesker Park Zoo's Camel Leaving For A New Home

There’s Still One Big Question

Zoo staff are inviting the community to join in on the fun by guessing one detail that has not yet been revealed.

Is Pistachio a boy or a girl?

For now, that remains a mystery, and the zoo is encouraging visitors and followers to share their guesses as the newest member of the porcupine family continues to grow.

If you want to see Pistachio in person, you can find the baby and mom in the Children’s Forest during regular zoo hours.