Hystrix cristata or H. africaeaustralis? - Ueno Zoo

This is a Cape porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis). As the zoo presumably and helpfully recognised, the distinguishing characteristic between the two is that band of short white quills along the rump and above the tail. In H. cristata, these quills are either black or mixed in colour.

@Dr. Loxodonta Is this individual truly a Cape porcupine? This species is quite rare in Japanese zoos.

@captain alligator, I do not have any experience with the species’ situation in Japan. Perhaps @DaLilFishie can provide further information, as they previously enquired about the taxonomic status of Ueno’s porcupine.

@Chlidonias ?

It's not cristata. Id be inclined towards a hybrid though, rather than pure africaeaustralis, because the rump band doesn't look that great.

@Chlidonias thanks!