Western long-beaked echidna

The western long-beaked echidna is one of the four extant species of echidnas and one of three species within the Zaglossus genus native to New Guinea. Initially named Tachyglossus bruijnii, it now serves as the type species for the Zaglossus genus. Unlike the short-beaked echidna, this egg-laying mammal primarily consumes earthworms, grows larger (weighing up to 16.5 kilograms), and possesses a longer, downward-curving snout. Its spines are interspersed with fur, making it the largest living monotreme.

This species predominantly inhabits the Bird's Head Peninsula and the Foja Mountains of West Papua and Papua provinces in Indonesia, typically at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 4,000 meters. It thrives in alpine meadows and humid montane forests. There is even some evidence to suggest that it might have survived in the Kimberley region of north-west Australia into recent times.

Unfortunately, the western long-beaked echidna is critically endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting. While commercial hunting is prohibited, traditional hunting practices remain permitted. A 2013 expedition by Conservation International discovered a population of these echidnas in the Foja Mountains, referring to it as part of a "lost world" of wildlife. Given its perilous status, conservation efforts are underway to protect this unique species and its habitat.