Porcupines can use their quills when threatened. Photo: Karunakar Rayker

Walkers in the Eden Valley are being warned not to approach two porcupines that have escaped from an animal rescue centre.

The father and son made a bid for freedom from their home near Penrith and are at loose in the Cumbrian countryside.

The pair were reported missing to police shortly after 9am this morning.

Police are warning members of the public to not approach the porcupines as when feeling threatened, they run backwards at their aggressor and spike them with their quills.

Terry Bowes, who runs Wetheriggs Animal Rescue & Conservation Centre from where the animals escaped, said: “The porcupines are father and son. They are nocturnal animals so chances of seeing them in the day are unlikely.

“We are looking for the safe return of the animals as soon as possible and I would advise people not to approach them.”

Inspector Craig Lory said: “We advise that the public do not approach the animals or try to touch them, they can cause injury if they feel threatened.

We hope to locate the porcupines as soon as possible and return them to Wetheriggs.”

Anyone who sees the porcupines is asked to contact Cumbria Police on 101 or call Terry Bowes on 07764352835.