Echidnas feature an interesting mix of traits that make them one of the more unique creatures on the planet.
They are native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea but their elusive nature can make them tricky to research in the wild.
As medium-sized mammals, they grow to an average size of about 35 to 61 cm (14 to 24 inches) long, with their snout often being one of the biggest size differences between species.
Their body is covered in a combination of hair and spikes. Some spikes are more than 5 centimetres (roughly 2 inches) long!
These spikes allow the echidna to curl up in a spiky ball to fend off potential predators such as dingoes, eagles, foxes, and Tasmanian devils.
You'll find a beak extending from the front of the echidna’s face, but they’re not hard like a duck's. Instead, they’re rubbery!
These traits combine to give echidnas one of their nicknames—the spiny anteater.
Echidnas often use their beaks to dig into hollow logs, soil, or termite mounds in search of their favourite food—insects and worms!
When swimming, their beaks can also act as a snorkel! This keeps them safely out of site without having to hold their breath.
They also have strong, clawed front feet which can be used to dig in search of treats.
Once they’ve found their prey, a long sticky tongue helps them gather loads of bugs into their mouth.
There, they’ll grind them into a paste using the plates (not teeth!) in their mouth before swallowing.
|