Echidnas and Platypus

Echidnas and the platypus are part of the Monotremata family. There are only three species of monotreme in the world - the platypus and two species of echidnas, one of which is restricted to the New Guinea highlands.

Monotremes have lower body temperatures than other mammals and have legs which extend out, then vertically below them. These features, together with their egg-laying, are more like that of a lizard than a mammal.

	Platypus in Tasmania The platypus is a unique Australian egg-laying mammal. They are easily identified by their streamlined bodies, webbed feet, broad tail and characteris...
	Short-beaked Echidna Echidnas, or spiny ant eaters, are familiar to most Australians. They are 30 cm to 45 cm in length and weigh between 2 kg and 5 kg.

Read about a fungal infection affecting the platypus in Tasmania.


Further information

  Biodiversity Conservation Branch
  Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment
  134 Macquarie Street
  HOBART TAS 7000
  Phone: 03 6233 6556
  Fax: 03 6233 3477
  Email: Wildlife.Reception@dpipwe.tas.gov.au

Department switchboard:  1300 368 550 (local call cost within Australia)

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