EGG LAYING MAMMALS. 267 



The Echidna (Echidna-hystrix) is an ant eater that 

 has a much more extensive distribution than the Platybus, 

 from which it differs in structure as well as appearance ; 

 instead of a mole-like fur, the upper part of the head and 

 body are covered with a mixture of stiff hairs, and short 

 thick spines that have caused it to be called the Australian 

 Porcupine. Although in some localities the underwool of 

 the Echidna is abundant, its skin is of little value for any 

 purpose, and it is only mentioned here because of its pe- 

 culiarities. It has a long bill but no teeth, and feeds solely 

 on ants which it obtains by means of its long tongue, 

 which like the palate is beset with spines. The eyes are of 

 fair size, but it has no ears, and the tail is a mere stump. 

 The body is broad and depressed, and the line of division 

 between the spine covered back and the hairy under parts 

 is sharply drawn. The short strong limbs are armed with 

 very powerful claws, varying in number in the different 

 species from three to five on each foot. 



Echidnas are fossorial and in the main nocturnal 

 animals, inhabiting rocky districts in the mountains at an 

 elevation of three thousand feet and upwards. Little is 

 known of their breeding habits, but according to the na- 

 tives they lay eggs, and the young, two in number, are 

 born during the Australian winter, usually in May. 



