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Porcupines

The North American porcupine, Erethizon dorsatum, is Minnesota’s second largest rodent surpassed only by the beaver. Like the skunk, this is an animal best given some space if encountered in the wild.

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Kate's Nest
The Nest Quest
Along Highway 61 it’s not unusual to see bald eagles, but it never fails: Someone exclaims “Eagle!” and we crane our necks to see the regal bird. My favorite sight was a massive eagle’s nest in a mature aspen. Occasionally, an eagle poked up from among the sticks. I always mused about what dinner was that day, or how many hungry beaks the eagles had to feed.
Lakota
“Retired” Wolf Dies
Lakota, a 15 1/2-year old wolf at the International Wolf Center, was euthanized last Nov. 7. A consultation with the Center’s veterinarian, Dr. Chip Hanson, led to the assessment that Lakota’s metabolic system was declining; she had stopped eating and was unable to deal with ambient conditions. While anti-inflammatory medication provided some relief, her condition continued to decline. Wolves in the wild may live eight to 10 years; captive wolves sometimes live as long as 14 to 16 years.