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Evolutionary, molecular and comparative zoology
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RESEARCH ARTICLE
Contents Vol 57(4)

Activity and behaviour of lactating echidnas (Tachyglossus aculeatus multiaculeatus) from hatching of egg to weaning of young

Peggy D. Rismiller A B C and Michael W. McKelvey B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Anatomical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia.

B Pelican Lagoon Research & Wildlife Centre, Penneshaw, SA 5222, Australia.

C Corresponding author. Email: echidna@kin.net.au

Australian Journal of Zoology 57(4) 265-273 https://doi.org/10.1071/ZO09031
Submitted: 31 March 2009  Accepted: 30 July 2009   Published: 26 October 2009

Abstract

Throughout their Australia-wide distribution, short-beaked echidnas breed during the winter months, i.e. June through early September. Actual duration of the female reproductive cycle, from attracting males and mating until weaning the young, can vary from 7 to 9 months depending on geographic location. Much of this variation is due to length of courtship and age of weaning the young. This paper presents data about the behaviour of free-ranging female echidnas on Kangaroo Island from egg laying through to weaning and compares it with findings from other areas. On Kangaroo Island, behaviour of lactating echidnas falls into two distinct phases: (1) while carrying the young in the pouch; and (2) after the young is placed in a nursery burrow. Females significantly increased both the number of hours active each day as well as the size of area utilised after the young was in the nursery. Although types of nursery burrows are similar throughout Australia, duration of use and frequency visited varies between geographic locations. A major difference is that Kangaroo Island echidnas are often active while carrying either the egg or the young in the pouch and echidnas in other regions remain in a burrow for extended periods.


Acknowledgements

This project was supported by the Earthwatch Institute throughout its duration. Other funds were received from the Mark Mitchell Research Foundation and the Philadelphia Zoological Society. This study was conducted under approvals from the University of Adelaide animal ethics committee and research permits from South Australian Department of Environment and Heritage. A special thanks to all Conservation Volunteers Australia and to the Earthwatch Institute participants for their untiring and ongoing assistance in the field. We would also like to thank the two reviewers for their helpful comments.


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