A large adult porcupine climbs steadily up a tree trunk, using its long tail for balance as it ascends. Its slow, deliberate movements show how well adapted it is for navigating trees despite its heavy build and protective quills. Porcupines launching their quills at would-be foes is just a myth. They cannot do that. However, quills will come out if a predator tries to attack a porcupine, causing pain and subsequently impeding the ability to feed due to the painful quills that remain stuck in the mouth and gums of the predator. Photographer: Sean Neilson