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Both the platypus and echidnas exhibit extreme specializations for feeding and locomotion.
The platypus emerges from its burrow for feeding usually in the early morning or late afternoon, but is sometimes in the water at other times of the day. When it is burrowing or walking on land the web of the front feet, which extends beyond the claws, is folded under the palms. The muzzle and the claws of the front feet are used in burrowing. The platypus swims gracefully and expertly, using the front feet. The hind feet, in conjunction with the flattened tail, are used mainly for stablization. The tail also assists the platypus in diving. The animal often swims along the surface with only the upper part of the muzzle and a small part of the head and body above the water. When submerged, the eyes and ears are closed by a fold of skin. The sensitive muzzle is an important organ for guiding the platypus while it swims blind, often close to the bottom. It may stir up the mud or move stones to locate its food. It surfaces often to breathe and to chew the prey, which it stores in cheek pouches while it is submerged. It can rest near the bottom for a few minutes by wedging itself under stones or logs. In captivity, the platypus has an enormous appetite, devouring each day the equivalent of half or more of its own body weight.
Echidnas are generally solitary. They appear to be more uncommon than they are because of the inaccessible nature of the places they choose to hide in and because of their remarkable ability to dig vertically into the ground and cover themselves with dirt when disturbed.
Observations on Tachyglossus in various parts of Australia indicate that its activity is closely related to the ambient temperature. In north Queensland, they are active primarily at night; but in the more temperate parts of eastern Australia, they are active both day and night. In desert regions they retire into crevices in rock outcrops during the day, where the humidity is higher and they are protected from intense sunlight.
Although echidnas are well adapted for digging, they do not excavate burrows, and they dig primarily to obtain food and escape enemies. They also retreat into hollow logs or under rocks or roots and wedge themselves into crevices and even into slight depressions in such a way that it is practically impossible to dislodge them. They can withdraw their appendages and erect their spines, as does a hedgehog. Echidnas walk with the legs fully extended so that the undersurface of the body is relatively high off the ground and with the hind toes directed outward and backward. They can run and climb well. Tachyglossus is extremely powerful and can tear apart rotten logs in search of termites or dig down to ant nests in rocky terrain.
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