The following paper explores the quill properties and structures of the Hystrix(Old World) and Erethizon(New World) porcupines. Both quills have a keratinous cortex filled with closed cell foam, that have good tensile strength, extensive deformation properties, and compressive capabilities. The main difference between the quills is the presence of stiffeners inside of the foam that exist in Hystrix and not in Erethizon. Hystrix quills have longitudinal stiffeners attached to the cortex surface with irregular scales that extend towards the center, with cells in the center of the quills larger than those of the cortex. The Erethizon quills have regular scales that decrease to a distal point as compared to Hystrix quills (reflected in the differing of sizes between the quills and thus their differences in flaring out and softening impacts from predators).
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