Western Long-beaked Echidna (Zaglossus bruijnii) — Critically Endangered Mammalia

Western Long-beaked Echidna

Zaglossus bruijnii

Conservation Status

Critically Endangered

Mammalia · Monotremata · Tachyglossidae

About

The western long-beaked echidna, also called Bruijin's long-beaked echidna, is one of the four extant echidnas and one of three species of Zaglossus that occurs in New Guinea. Originally described as Tachyglossus bruijnii, this is the type species of Zaglossus.

Fun Fact

Western long-beaked echidnas are one of only five surviving monotremes (egg-laying mammals) and were thought extinct until camera traps confirmed surviving populations in Papua's remote highlands in 2007.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Tropical montane forests

Diet

Insectivore

Lifespan

30-45 years

Threats

  • Small Population Size
  • Deforestation
  • Illegal Wildlife Trade
  • Wildfire

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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