There are two types of echidna. The long-beaked echidna can be only found in New Guinea. Australia is home to short-beaked echidna. Along with platypus, they are the only egg-laying mammals on Earth. Recent discoveries suggest that the echidna actually is a product of evolution from a platypus-like ancestor and they split some millions of years ago. Let us start with the name Echidna. The animal was named after Echidna from Greek mythology where Echidna was a monster, half-women and half-snake. Echidna-animal carries the features of a mammal and a reptile. Echidna has spines like a porcupine, a beak like a bird and a pouch like a kangaroo, and lays eggs like a reptile. But… the spines are actually a modified hair. They are 5 cm long and a fur between the spines provides insulation. Echidnas have the lowest body temperature of any mammals, 32deg C which can fluctuate by up to 6-8 deg C over the course of the day. During winter months echidna goes into the hibernation, reducing body temperature and slowing metabolism. Adult echidna weight ranges between two and six kilos. They live for up to 45 years.
wow that one is very brown, and doesn't have many spines. they are quite different to the black ones we get in this area. I didn't realise they live so long. I see lots of echnida evidence on the property, and catch them with night cameras, but sadly I see far too many dead on the road between here and the closest town.
this is a great shot!
Your photography at Bonorong is amazing! When I was there I saw a three-footed echidna that had been hurt. I wonder if he is still there? Thanks for sharing so much information.
January 4th, 2021
Leave a Comment
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.
this is a great shot!