Cleveland Metroparks Zoo today introduced two of its newest additions - echidnas "Sydney" and "Peanuts" -- to their new exhibit in the Australian Adventure area of the Zoo.

Echidnas are considered unique because they're among the only mammals in the world to lay eggs, and their elusive nature likely will make them among the most rarely spotted animals at the Zoo. Echidnas are spiky little creatures from Australia that tend to burrow underground or in bushes, making it difficult for people to see them.

Male Sydney and female Peanuts came to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo from the Oklahoma City Zoo earlier this year, and they now reside in the Zoo's GumLeaf Hideout in the same exhibit as the koalas. The Zoo hopes Sydney and Peanuts will breed and ultimately bring the Zoo its first baby echidnas, which are called "puggles."

Echidnas, which have been around since prehistoric times, are puzzling to animal experts because their traits are so different than any other single species. Echidnas look like porcupines, have pouches like kangaroos, eat like anteaters and lay eggs like chickens.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is one of only several zoos nationwide to house echidnas. In addition to Sydney and Peanuts, the Zoo is home to echidna "Puggsley," who also lives in the GumLeaf Hideout but in the tree kangaroo's exhibit.

Northeast Ohio's most popular year-round attraction, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Winter admission is $7 per person ages 12 and older and $5 for kids ages 2 to 11. Starting March 14, regular admission will be $10 per person and $6 for kids ages 2 to 11. The Zoo is always free for children under 2 and Zoo members. Parking is free. Located at 3900 Wildlife Way, the Zoo is easily accessible from Interstates 71, 77, 90 and 480.

To learn more, visit clemetzoo.com or call (216) 661-6500.