As the Echidna wandered past it decided to investigate my leg. It was quite gentle and the tip of its snout felt moist, similar to a dog's, but more leathery. Clearly it had not come across a human leg before as it continued to probe with its snout. However when it finally started to raise a claw to further its investigation I decided it prudent to move aside. It made no attempt to run away, but went into a diminutive huddle.

Unlike most animals it has a fused jaw through which the sticky tongue slides. Also it waddles as its rear toes face backward. Apart from its spines, this must be one of the most innocuous creatures I have come across.