2. Short-Beaked Echidna

This cute little buddy is not a hedgehog. Tachyglossus aculeatus, often known as the Short-Beaked Echidna, is a fascinating species found only in New Guinea, Tasmania, and Australia.

Sometimes known as the “spiny anteater,” this creature is one of the mammals that lay eggs. As its nickname says, this animal is covered in multiple spikes that help it protect itself from predators. This is a very effective method, and that’s why evolution decided to keep it. The spines are actually just modified hairs. They are extremely strong, and the little one can use them to swim, climb, and dig.

Generally, the short-beaked echidna, even if it’s small, weighs between 4 and 15 pounds. It has no teeth, and in order to feed, it uses its long and sticky tongue to catch insects and termites. The insects stick to the tongue, and then they are swallowed inside the mouth of the short-beaked echidna.

Its strong front claws help this animal dig tunnels, which it later uses for refuge and to nurture its young. The short-beaked echidna is also an excellent swimmer, capable of crossing rivers and lakes.

Being part of the mammals that lay eggs, the females of this species incubate the egg – yes, they lay only one egg at a time – and keep it in a safe pouch for 10 days before it hatches.