Another Australian Monotreme - The Echidna

[Terrier]

As many have seen my previous posts on that other iconic monotreme the Platypus, well today I had a chance encounter with the "other" one. This is the Echidna aka 'Spiny Anteater'. More specifically this is the Tasmanian version, it has a lot more hair that effectively masks his/her spines due to our much cooler climate. This one seemed rather unconcerned by my presence but going on the sturdiness of the spines and the size of those digging claws on all four feet I would not like to tangle with one. Beautiful little critter though.

 

[Jeff15]

Very nice set.....

 

[jeffashman]

Very interesting little creature!