Marvin the Porcupine, 1999–2007
Tahoe bid farewell to one its beloved community members, Marvin the porcupine, this September. If you had never had the pleasure of meeting Marvin, the constant companion of BEAR League executive director Ann Bryant, he was a sight to behold. Though at first intimidating with his wide girth and formidable quills, Marvin was actually a quiet, amiable animal who loved to relax in his red wagon. Bryant carted him to dozens of community events each year, including Earth Day celebrations at Squaw Valley, fall festivals in Tahoe City and Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care open houses in South Lake Tahoe.
Marvin was rescued by Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care after he was hit by a car eight years ago. Unable to return to the wild, he was taken in by Bryant and has lived with her ever since. I first met Marvin on Commons Beach in Tahoe City three years ago. Though at first afraid to pet him, after witnessing his docile nature, I was enamored—and amazed that he never left his red wagon! A year and a half later, while in a volunteer training course for Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care, I bore witness to Marvin’s wild side. He moseyed slowly around the convention room, bumping into walls and tables.
His premature death—porcupines can live up to 20 years—is attributed to liver cancer, with which he fell ill about a month before passing. Plans are in the works to commemorate Marvin, perhaps with a bronze statue. Donations can be made to the BEAR League with the notation, “Marvin’s memorial fund.” For more information, visit www.savebears.org.