Although most mammals are known for producing live births, there are two exceptions to the rule. One is the platypus, while the other exception are the echidnas. According to The Smithsonian Institute Animal publication, when it comes to monotremes, "In all species, the digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts empty into a common chamber (the cloaca), which terminates into a single exit ("monotreme" means "one hole").
The Platypus
Often referred to as the duck-billed platypus, this monotreme is known for having duck-like features including webbed feet and a long bill which allows this creature to search for food in fresh water rivers and lakes to find insect larvae and crustaceans to eat.
The female only lays one to two eggs at a time. The shells are soft and have a leathery type of shell. The gestation period lasts for about a month and the incubation period lasts for ten days. Once hatched, the mother will suckle them for three to four months.
Australian Echidna
Echidnas are typically found in Australia and New Guinea in various habitats. While the short-beaked echidna is at low risk for becoming extinct, the long-beaked echidna is on the endangered species list. The largest of the monotremes, the long-beaked echidna will dig a burrow for her egg. However, once hatched, she'll carry the baby in her pouch.
Measuring 23 1/2 - 39 inches, this long-beaked echidna is known for its long snout which can measure more than eight inches while weighing 11 - 22 pounds. This slow moving mammal can curl itself into a ball when trying to remain safe and defend itself.
Short-beaked Echidna
Resembling a porcupine, the short-beaked echidna is also known as the spiny anteater. Preferring solitude, this short-legged monotreme prefers to live on its own. Although monotremes lack the existence of teeth, they are able to grind up their food. Using its powerful claws, the short-beaked echidna digs for food. Some of its favorite foods include worms, termites, and an assortment of ants.
While the majority of mammals are known for giving live births, the exceptions to the rule are the monotremes. While the platypus, who resides in freshwater in eastern Australia, and both the short and long-beaked echidnas, who live in Australia and New Guinea, lay eggs, they are unique among mammals who normally don't.
Readers may also enjoy Conservation and Saving Endangered Species and Why are Orangutans an Endangered Species?
Source:
- Smithsonian Institute Animal, Editors-in-chief David Burnie & Don E. Wilson, (DK Publishing, Inc.,) 2009
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