The Echidna also known as the Spiny Anteater is a primitive oviparous{egg-laying} mammal that lives in Australia and New Guinea. Echidnas and the platypus are the only egg-laying mammals, known as monotremes. Echidnas are small, solitary mammals covered with coarse hair and spines.
The echidna lives for over 50 years in captivity. They have snouts which have the functions of both mouth and nose. When attacked, the echidna will quickly burrow in the ground or curl up in a ball. Contrary to previous research, the echidna does enter REM(rapid eye movement) sleep, Despite its being only when the ambient temperature is around 77°F . At temperatures of 59°F and 82°F, REM sleep is suppressed.
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