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AN AUSTRALIAN ECHIDNA WALKS ACROSS A TRACK IN SYDNEY
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Reuters
AN AUSTRALIAN ECHIDNA WALKS ACROSS A TRACK IN SYDNEY
An echidna, native to Australia, casts a shadow as it walks over a track in
Sydneys Taronga Zoo August 4, 2003. Scientists say that the echidna, which
has been called a freak of nature, has often been the victim of mistaken
identity with the hedgehog and North American spiny porcupine but is in fact
one of the worlds clearest examples of Convergent evolution - the emergence
of chance look-alikes. FOR RELEASE WITH FEATURE
BC-SCIENCE-AUSTRALIA-HEDGEHOGS NO RIGHTS CLEARANCES OR PERMISSIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS IMAGE REUTERS/David Gray
DG/DL - RP4DRIFRLXa
Reuters photo archive features some of the most dramatic and iconic moments ever captured
Media ID 19272120
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, an Australian echidna gracefully traverses a track at Sydney's Taronga Zoo. The echidna, native to Australia, casts a striking shadow as it moves with purpose and elegance. This unique creature has often been mistaken for the hedgehog or North American spiny porcupine due to its remarkable appearance. However, scientists explain that the echidna is not merely a freak of nature but rather one of the world's clearest examples of Convergent evolution. Convergent evolution refers to the emergence of chance look-alikes in different species. Despite their distinct origins and evolutionary paths, certain animals can evolve similar traits or physical characteristics due to shared environmental pressures. The echidna exemplifies this phenomenon beautifully. As we gaze upon this image captured by David Gray from Reuters Images, we are reminded of nature's endless wonders and its ability to surprise us with unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated creatures. The intricate details on the echidna's spiky exterior and its determined stride evoke both curiosity and admiration. This mesmerizing photograph invites us into the enchanting world of Australian wildlife while also highlighting the importance of understanding our natural surroundings accurately. It serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving, urging us to delve deeper into scientific knowledge before making assumptions about these fascinating creatures that share our planet.
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