What is a monotreme?

   A monotreme is an ani­mal belonging to the most primitive order of mammals—Monotremata. The duckbill, or platypus, and spiny anteater (Echidna) are the only members of the order. They both lay eggs and nurse their young.

platypus
platypus
Monotremes (Platypus and Echidna)

echidna
Echidna