why do porcupines like the glue in plywood?

 begin quote from Google AI and Internet:

Porcupines are attracted to the glue in plywood because it contains sodium, which is an essential nutrient that they crave. Porcupines have a natural drive for salt, and plywood glue, along with other materials like road salt, human sweat on tools, and some paints, can provide this. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

• Salt Deficiency:

  Porcupines, especially during certain times of the year (like spring), can be deficient in sodium, which is necessary for their bodies to function properly. 

  
  

Seeking Salt:

This sodium deficiency drives porcupines to seek out salt sources, including natural licks, road salt, and the glue in plywood. 

Plywood Glue:

The glue used in plywood construction often contains sodium, making it an attractive food source for porcupines. 

Other Salt Sources:

Besides plywood, porcupines may chew on anything that contains salt, including:

• Road salt on tires and undercarriages of vehicles. 

Human sweat on tools and equipment. 

Some types of paint and wood preservatives. 

Gnawing is Necessary:

Porcupines also need to gnaw to wear down their continuously growing teeth, so chewing on plywood can serve both a nutritional and a dental purpose.