Adorable echidna might host parasite. (5)

I believe the answer is:

leech

'parasite' is the definition.
(I know that parasite can be written as leech)

'adorable echidna might host' is the wordplay.
'host' says the answer is hidden in the clue (I've seen 'hosts' mean this).
'LEECH' is hidden within 'adorable echidna might'.

(Other definitions for leech that I've seen before include "One who sponges on others" , "Freeloader" , "Parasite - hanger-on" , "Clinging type" , "Blood sucker" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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