12 Things You Didn't Know About the Strange and Spiky Echidna
6. Their Spines Protect Them From Predators
Echidina with only its spines exposed
John White Photos / Getty Images
According to the San Diego Zoo, echidnas deal with predators three ways. They either run on their tiny, stubby legs, curl up into themselves, or — their best defense mechanism — dig holes to hide in.2 The critters are quick diggers and can seek safety in a shallow hole where only their faces and feet are hidden but their rears are still exposed. Predators (foxes, goannas, Tasmanian devils, etc.) often prove they are not hungry enough to grab at a spiky ball.
Echidina with only its spines exposed
John White Photos / Getty Images
According to the San Diego Zoo, echidnas deal with predators three ways. They either run on their tiny, stubby legs, curl up into themselves, or — their best defense mechanism — dig holes to hide in.2 The critters are quick diggers and can seek safety in a shallow hole where only their faces and feet are hidden but their rears are still exposed. Predators (foxes, goannas, Tasmanian devils, etc.) often prove they are not hungry enough to grab at a spiky ball.
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15 March 2024
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