Knuckles in Sonic is an echidna. He’s specifically portrayed as a red anthropomorphic echidna in the Sonic series.

Quick Scoop

  • Animal: Echidna.
  • Character role: Sonic’s rival and ally, known for strength and guarding the Master Emerald.
  • Why it’s confusing: His design is stylized, so he doesn’t look like a real-world echidna at first glance.

If you want, I can also explain what an echidna is in real life.