He doesn't seem to have any spines at all- when do young porcupines get their spines? I thought they were born with soft spikes which hardened in just a few days, like hedgehogs- but that chap has clearly got good chomping teeth but isn't spiny......
Maggi - This little guy does indeed have spines- but not like the European Hedgehog. They are most prominent along the back and hind end. He's called Teddy Bear, and he actually has a facebook page. There is a photo of the leather gauntlet worn by 'his human' while carrying him. The spines that get embedded in the glove are difficult to remove because the tips are barbed.
Three years ago we had one visit one of our ponds for a drink. They are usually not seen around here other than as unfortunate mishaps along the highways.
By the way, Kristl says hello- she stopped in yesterday to pick up some seed (Kniphofia triangularis and Gillenia trifoliata).
Happy New Year to you! Still stuck in 2013 this side of the pond.