The short-beaked Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) is one of four living species of Echidna (The Cyclops Long-beaked Echidna was recently discovered). It regularly eats ants and termites, therefore its nickname, the spiny anteater. It inhabits most of Australia and many nearby islands including Tasmania and New Guinea. They generally use their smell to locate food. Some scientists believe they can receive electric impulses using sensors around their nose to help them in locating prey animals.
The Short-beaked echidna is listed as Least Concern (LR/lc), lowest risk. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category, on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Namings for the shortbeaked echidna
A young / baby of a shortbeaked echidna is called a 'puggle'.Some facts about the
Short-nosed echidna
Adult weight : 1.55 kg (3.41 lbs)
Maximum longevity : 50 years
Female maturity :548 days
Male maturity : 548 days
Gestation : 22 days
Weaning : 200 days
Litter size : 1
Interval between litters : 730 days
Weight at weaning : 0.4 kg (0.88 lbs)
Basal metabolic rate : 2 W
Body mass : 2.909 kg (6.3998 lbs)
Temperature : 30.85 °C (87.53 °F)
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