Enchidna

Echidnas, sometimes known as spiny anteaters, are quill-covered monotremes belonging to the family Tachyglossidae. The four extant species of echidnas and the platypus are the only living mammals that lay eggs and the only surviving members of the order Monotremata. The Echidna ranges from 35-52 cm in length. It can weigh up to 6 kg, but the females are usually smaller than the males. Echidnas are covered with a fur that can range from reddish to dark brown colour. The spines on the backs of Echidnas are modified hairs that vary in colour from cream to black. Along with the platypus, the echidna is the only other living egg-laying mammal species. Almost a month after mating, the female deposits a single, soft-shelled, leathery egg into her pouch. The gestation period is quite quick – after only ten days the baby echidna hatches. Echidnas are found throughout New Guinea and mainland Australia, as well as Tasmania, King Island, Flinders Island and Kangaroo Island. They are Australia's most widespread native mammal, being found in almost all habitats, from snow covered mountains to deserts.

Scientific name: Tachyglossidae

Gestation period: Short-beaked echidna: 21 – 28 days, Western long-beaked echidna: 10 days

Family: Tachyglossidae; Gill, 1872

Kingdom: Animalia

Order: Monotremata

Phylum: Chordata