The North American Porcupine
"Engaging and interesting. The reader will learn much about this fascinating mammal that is frequent in our woods but often unseen by the untrained observer."—Wildlife Activist"This is an engaging and interesting book that will be of interest to general readers and specialists alike. The new material in the second edition ofThe North American Porcupine—especially the information on defense reactions and Uldis Roze's up-close observations derived by following the life of a single individual-is informative and adds new dimensions."—Bernd Heinrich, University of Vermont, author ofWinter WorldandMind of the Raven"Uldis Roze can find a score of mysteries during every walk in the woods. InThe North American Porcupinehe transforms a prickly varmint into an intriguing animal whose every action raises an ecological and evolutionary question whose thread must be followed. This book is a comprehensive and sympathetic description of the life and biology of porcupines, expressed through the cycles of the seasons and of their lives. But it is also the personal story of a naturalist's decades-long journey of discovery. These stories show that there is still as much to learn from close attention to the world in our own backyards as there is from far travels. The first edition was among my favorite natural history books. This second edition adds new chapters and updated information that improves and completes both the scientific content and our understanding of porcupine life history."—Louise Emmons, Adjunct Scientist, Smithsonian Institution"The porcupine is one of those familiar animals that everyone recognizes but few people know anything about. Uldis Roze's book provides a wealth of fascinating details written in an engaging, accessible style. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in nature."—Wayne Lynch, science writer and wildlife photographer"Uldis Roze is a sensitive and articulate observer not only of porcupines but also of the myriad of ecological relations that make a forest. He writes in an inviting style and takes you with him as he follows porcupines during the night.The North American Porcupineis a scientific work that nonetheless contains all the emotions that fill people with admiration for the natural world. The first edition had had a strong influence on my career as it had prompted me to start a research program on porcupines. Although everyone knows the North American porcupine, no one has spent more time observing them than Uldis Roze. This shows in every page of this book. The second edition will make available to naturalists and scientists the latest findings on the biology of porcupines. I would recommend it not only to anyone with an interest in porcupines but also to anyone with an interest in biodiversity hidden close to home."—Dominique Berteaux, Université du Québec àRimouski