[2] It is found in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Mexico, Nicaragua and Belize.

[3] This species was formerly sometimes assigned to Sphiggurus,[2] a genus no longer recognized since genetic studies showed it to be polyphyletic.

This porcupine is covered with short yellowish spines but these are almost entirely obscured by the long black hair on the body.

The day is spent in a hollow tree, concealed on a leafy branch, or in highland areas, in a clump of bamboos.

Individuals normally live alone and are silent, but in the breeding season it is more vocal, emitting screams and yowls.