Small Mammals

Nocturnal Creatures

In this recently completed exhibit, enter the world of darkness to see the activities of flying squirrels and other small rodents under black lights.

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Porcupine

A baby porcupine is called a ‘porcupette’; and their quills are ready to use 20 minutes after they are born! Porcupines cannot throw their quills; anything that tangles with a porcupine has to make contact; the quills are then released and barbs like fish hooks embed themselves into the unfortunate bird or mammal. Learn more about porcupines from Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

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Woodchuck

There are only 3 true mammal hibernators in Maine; and the woodchuck is one of them. It goes to ground by late September, and doesn’t wake up until spring. The other 2 true mammal hibernators include the little brown bat and the meadow jumping mouse. Learn more about woodchucks from Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.