Porcupine

Porcupines are large rodents covered in sharp quills. They have a stout body, small head, and short legs. The quills are yellowish with black tips and cover most of their body except for the face and belly.

Porcupines are not typically considered an 'infestation' pest, but their presence is noticeable by gnawed tree bark, damaged wooden structures (decks, sheds), and distinctive droppings (small, oval pellets). They may also strip bark from ornamental plants or gardens near wooded areas in Myrtle Beach.

MBPC does not handle porcupine removal directly, as they are protected wildlife. However, we can provide exclusion advice and consultation to Grand Strand property owners on how to deter them from damaging structures, following guidelines from the SC Department of Natural Resources.

Protect trees and wooden structures on your Myrtle Beach property with wire mesh or hardware cloth. Remove potential food sources, such as fallen fruit or accessible birdseed. Consider motion-activated lights or noisemakers to deter them from entering your yard.

Porcupines are found in wooded areas along the Grand Strand, including maritime forests, residential areas bordering natural habitats, and parks. They prefer areas with abundant trees for food and shelter, adapting well to the coastal SC environment and tolerant of its humid subtropical climate.

Peak activity: Year-Round