Least Concern

Echidna (Short-beaked)

Tachyglossus aculeatus

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About

The short-beaked echidna, also known as the spiny anteater, is a monotreme (egg-laying mammal) native to Australia and New Guinea. They are covered in spines and have a long, sticky tongue for catching insects.

Habitat

Forests, deserts, and grasslands of Australia and New Guinea

Diet

Insectivorous - ants and termites

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Fun Facts

Echidnas are one of only five monotreme species in the world (the others are platypuses).
Females lay a single egg, which they carry in a pouch on their belly.
Echidnas have electroreceptors in their snouts to detect prey.

Conservation

StatusLeast Concern

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