September 18, 2006—Getting shown up by an animal a fraction of your size is one thing, but getting schooled by a little critter in front of a bunch of your predator buddies? Ouch.

Watch an African crested porcupine prove that the quill is mightier than the fang as it pits its bristles against the claws of a group of curious lion cubs. Then stay tuned as another one of the small, bristled beasts charges its way through a pride of adult lions, showing that a little attitude—plus a back full of sharp, hollow spines—can go a long way.