Echidna breeding season has begun and residents are being advised what to do if one of the spiky creatures takes up post in the backyard.
The team at Bundy Wild Matters said echidnas were often spotted in the region with more sightings expected as mating season ramped up.
“At the moment they are active as it is coming into the breeding season which continues until the end of September,” wildlife carer Linda Karlsen said.
“If you are lucky you may come across a line of males following a female as they try to mate with her.”
Linda said she was called out last week to a property in the region after owners discovered an echidna had taken up residence in the backyard.
“My guess, from the size, was the animal was a young adult,” she said.
“It was found in a backyard in a home at Avoca hiding behind some timber.”
Linda said at the time, there were some concerns about poisoning as the property next door had just been sprayed for termites.
“Echidnas feed on termites and their eggs,” she said.
“A couple of experts were consulted and it was determined that there was no cause for concern and the animal could be released.”
Linda said the echidna was then released at a suitable location very near where it was found.
She said echidnas were often spotted in borrows where they like to sleep and hide.
“Echidnas are very strong diggers but tend to bury themselves just into the soil or hide under logs and other forest debris,” she said.
“They often use the burrows of other animals.”
Linda said for those who came across an echidna, it was best to leave the animal alone to go about its business.
“They are very timid and will just stop and roll themselves up if they are disturbed or try to bury themselves or even wedge themselves into a tight place,” she said.
“If you have any concerns about an echidna at your property, just give Bundy Wild Matters a call and we will be more than happy to give you any information or assistance if you require it.
“If you come across an injured one you can also call us.”
Find out more here or contact the team on 4156 5382.
