Animal: Echidna (which is also called a Spiny Anteater)

Nickname: Spiky

Characteristics:

Echidnas are sometimes called a ‘Pin-cushion on legs’. On its back, sides and tail the echidna is covered with strong pointed spines. In between the spines is coarse hair. Its tummy is covered with soft hair. The long pointy spines are its only form of protection. When the echidna gets scared of other animals it can roll into a ball of spines and no other animal wants spines for lunch.

Height & Weight:

Adult echidnas vary in size, from 35 to 53 cm. Males weigh about 6 kilograms, while females weigh about 4.5 kilograms.

Where they live:

Echidnas only live in Australia, they are usually found among rocks, in hollow logs and in holes among tree roots. During rainy or windy weather they often burrow into the soil or shelter under bushes and tussocks of grass.

What they eat:

With a keen sense of smell, an echidna uses its long, hairless snout to search for food. Termites and ants are their favourite food. After finding food, an echidna catches the prey with its long, sticky tongue. Because it has no teeth, it grinds its food between its tongue and the bottom of its mouth.