Definition

1. Noun:
   • A burrowing monotreme mammal covered with spines and having a long snout and claws for hunting ants and termites; native to Australia and New Guinea. An echidna is a unique, egg-laying mammal. It is characterized by a body covered in coarse hair and sharp spines, a long, slender snout, and strong claws adapted for digging. It feeds primarily on ants and termites.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The echidna is one of only two extant monotreme species, the other being the platypus.
  • We were lucky to spot an echidna foraging in the bush during our hike.
  • When threatened, the echidna can curl into a ball, protecting its soft underside with its spines.

Advanced Usage

• "Spiny anteater": A common alternative name for the echidna, directly describing its appearance and diet.
  • The spiny anteater uses its long, sticky tongue to capture insects.

Variants and Related Words

• Monotreme (n): The biological order to which the echidna and platypus belong, distinguished by laying eggs instead of giving live birth.
  • Monotremes are a fascinating link between reptiles and mammals.

Synonyms

• Spiny anteater: A descriptive synonym based on its physical traits and diet.

Noun

1. a burrowing monotreme mammal covered with spines and having a long snout and claws for hunting ants and termites; native to Australia
2. a burrowing monotreme mammal covered with spines and having a long snout and claws for hunting ants and termites; native to New Guinea