Short-beaked echidnas are widespread but vulnerable to road strikes, particularly during their mating season when males follow females in breeding trains across roads.
Echidna road strikes cause severe internal injuries and fractures — animals not killed outright suffer pain before being found by wildlife carers. Their defensive ball posture makes them a static target on roads. Breeding season concentrations near roads create acute mortality spikes. Wildlife carer networks provide treatment but capacity is stretched during peak seasons. Road warning signs and reduced speed limits in known crossing areas are effective mitigations.