Body rounded and covered in sharp spines, with fur between. Spines yellow-cream with black tips. Smooth tubular snout. Long sharp claws. They feed on ants, termites and other small invertebrates using a long, sticky tongue. They grind this food on horny plates in the mouth. Females lay eggs and feed their young on milk.

At a glance

Habitat Range of areas, including forests.
Size Body can grow to around 44cm
Origin Endemic
Distribution Mainland Australia and Tasmania
Descriptions
Distribution
Mainland Australia and Tasmania
Habitat
Range of areas, including forests.
Size
Body can grow to around 44cm
Common Name Short-Beaked Echidna
Aliases No Known Aliases
Origin Endemic
Conservation Least Concern
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
SubphylumVertebrata
SuperclassGnathostomata
ClassMammalia
SubclassPrototheria
OrderMonotremata
FamilyTachyglossidae
GenusTachyglossus
SpeciesTachyglossus aculeatus
Synonyms

Synonyms

There are no known synonyms for this species
References and dates
Original No original text available
Bibliography View page references
Added Sun 31 Jan 2021 @ 23:00 PM
Updated Sun 25 Sep 2022 @ 00:00 AM
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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.