The Perth Zoo's (in Australia) echidna breeding program has produced a world-first breeding milestone. Two babies, known as puggles, are the first to be bred from zoo-born echidnas and are also the first offspring to be born to four-year old mothers. The puggles were born to first time mothers Mila and Chindi, both bred and born at Perth Zoo as part of its breeding program for the short-beaked echidnas.
The births have shed new light on echidna reproduction. Until now, it was believed female echidnas did not breed until the age of five. This breakthrough may in turn help conserve the Short-Beaked Echidna's endangered cousin, the Long-beaked echidna, which is facing extinction in the wild in New Guinea.
General Information about the Echidna
Echidnas are monotremes (mammals that lay eggs). They are also known as spiny ate eaters. Echidnas are 30cm to 45cm in length and weigh between 2Kg and 5 Kg. The body, with the exception of the underside, face and legs, is covered with cream covered spines.
The echidna is shy and moves slowly and carefully. It is adapted for very rapid digging, having short limbs and powerful claws. The echidna is common throughout most of Australia and New Guinea, in particular dry country areas. Their diet is largely made up of ants and termites.
