Driving through Ben Lomond National Park in Tasmania is usually an awe-inspiring experience, with its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. But for Richard Waldron and Shannon Lee, a recent drive up a foggy mountain road turned into something truly extraordinary. The pair, who work at the Tasmanian Rover Ski Club, were left stunned when a group of rare animals suddenly emerged from the mist, crossing the road right in front of their car.
An Unexpected Encounter
“We both felt a sense of awe as they walked across the road,” Waldron and Lee shared. The animals they spotted were echidnas, also known as “spiny anteaters.” These elusive creatures are native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea, but they’re notoriously difficult to observe due to their solitary nature and excellent camouflage. Yet here they were—five of them, in what appeared to be a rare mating train, a behavior unique to echidnas during the Australian winter.
A Rare Sight Captured on Video
Waldron and Lee managed to capture the remarkable moment on video, which they later shared online. The clip quickly gained traction, with viewers marveling at the rarity of the sighting. “We didn’t realize how special it was until we posted it on TikTok and saw the comments,” the pair said. “Most people have only ever seen one or two echidnas at a time, so seeing five together was incredibly lucky.”
Why Echidnas Are So Unique ?
Echidnas are fascinating creatures. With their prickly spines and shy demeanor, they’re often compared to hedgehogs, though they belong to a completely different biological group. Echidnas, along with the platypus, are monotremes—a rare type of mammal that lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young. According to the National Wildlife Federation, echidnas are typically solitary, making this group encounter even more extraordinary.
A Reminder to Drive Carefully
The video of the echidnas has delighted both wildlife enthusiasts and local organizations. Visit Northern Tasmania shared the footage on social media, writing, “[How] cute are these guys! This is a great reminder to take it easy on Tasmanian roads and be conscious that we share this space with native wildlife.”
Wildlife advocacy groups echo this sentiment, urging drivers to remain vigilant and mindful of the animals that call these areas home. Encounters like this one serve as a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that surrounds us—and the importance of protecting it.
Nature’s Surprises Await
Waldron and Lee’s chance encounter with a rare echidna mating train is a testament to the magic of exploring the natural world. Whether you’re driving through the foggy mountains of Tasmania or hiking in your local park, nature always has a way of surprising us. So next time you’re out and about, keep your eyes peeled—you never know when you might witness something truly unforgettable.
