How to Remove a Porcupine Quill from a Human

The protective quills covering a porcupine's body, contrary to popular myth, can't shoot out when the animal is threatened. But quills can become deeply embedded into the skin if you get close enough for the animal to swipe at you with its quill-covered tail or back. The barb-tipped quills can reach lengths of four inches or longer, all of which may be embedded into human skin under specific conditions. For example, in a 1947 incident, a 12-pound porcupine fell onto a scientist, driving all seven inches of the quill into his leg.

Things You'll Need

• Flat-jawed pliers (optional)
• Clean water
• Soap
• Clean cloth
• Antibiotic cream
• Bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Grasp the quill between your thumb and forefinger, close to the point of penetration. You'll probably get the best results if you use your stronger, dominant hand to pull out the quill.

• 2

  Jerk the quill out by pulling quickly outward. Keep the quill as straight as possible, and work as quickly as possible to minimize pain.

• 3

  Use pliers for large or very deeply embedded quills. Use the same straight-and-back jerking motion as you would if you were pulling it out with your thumb and finger. Be careful not to use such a tight grip with your pliers that you break the quill in half.

• 4

  Wash the wound with soap and clean water. This should be treated as a puncture wound because quill punctures sometimes become infected. Apply an antibiotic cream to the affected area and cover it with a small adhesive bandage.