Imagine driving through a misty national park, expecting beautiful views and maybe a wallaby or two—and then suddenly stumbling upon a breathtaking wildlife spectacle most locals have never witnessed in a lifetime. This is exactly what happened to Richard Waldron and Shannon Lee as they journeyed through Tasmania’s Ben Lomond National Park, giving them (and soon, the whole internet) a story for the ages.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Roadside Sighting
Driving up the winding, fog-shrouded roads of Ben Lomond National Park, Richard Waldron and Shannon Lee—both members of the Tasmanian Rover Ski Club—were prepared for dramatic vistas, not wildlife legends. But sometimes, nature likes to upstage even the best expectations. As the car crept along the mountain pass, a group of unexpected local celebrities appeared: a line of rare echidnas wandered straight across the road.
“We both felt a sense of awe as they walked across the road,” Waldron and Lee shared.
These animals weren’t just any road-crossers. They were echidnas, often affectionately called “spiny anteaters.” Elusive by reputation, these unique creatures are native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea. Thanks to their masterful camouflage and preference for solo adventures, spotting even one is a treat. Waldron and Lee, however, were treated to five—yes, five—marching single file in what appeared to be a “mating train,” a rare display seen only during the Australian winter.
Catching the Moment on Video—and Capturing Hearts Online
Fortunately, the duo managed to record the remarkable parade, and before long, the clip was making the rounds online. Like dropping the world’s cutest wildlife bombshell, their TikTok post quickly drew an outpouring of astonishment and delight.
“We didn’t realize how special it was until we posted it on TikTok and saw the comments,”
they confessed. Turns out, encounters featuring more than two echidnas are rare enough—seeing five at once is almost like catching a kangaroo hosting a barbecue. For many, this was their first time seeing such a phenomenon, and social media couldn’t get enough.
Fascinating, Spiky, and Egg-Laying: Meet the Echidna
If you’ve never seen an echidna, think of a shy hedgehog with extra charisma, though biologists will hasten to clarify: echidnas and hedgehogs are distant relatives at best. Echidnas, together with the platypus, belong to a charmingly rare mammal order called monotremes—meaning they lay eggs rather than birthing live young. According to the National Wildlife Federation, echidnas usually keep to themselves. That’s why a gathering like this, especially during their unique winter courting process, is headline-worthy among nature lovers.
A Sweet Reminder to Share the Road
Waldron and Lee’s video soon caught the attention of both wildlife enthusiasts and local organizations. Visit Northern Tasmania shared the footage across their platforms, chiming in with:
“[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 advocates echoed the call, urging everyone to stay alert behind the wheel—these wondrous roads are home to more than just stunning scenery. Encounters like this are as enchanting as they are important: they remind us of the biodiversity on our doorstep, and our role in protecting it.
Waldron and Lee’s chance brush with the wild is a testament to the unpredictable joy of exploring the world, whether you’re driving through the misty mountains of Tasmania or wandering your neighborhood park. Next time you’re out and about, keep your eyes open—nature’s surprises are everywhere, and you never know what unforgettable moment awaits just around the bend.