Platypus

The Platypus is one of Australia's most unusual animals. It is a mammal that lays eggs, just like the echidna. When scientists first saw a Platypus, many thought it was a fake animal!

The Platypus has a duck-like bill, webbed feet, thick waterproof fur, and a broad flat tail. It is an excellent swimmer and uses its front feet to paddle through the water. Male Platypus have a venomous spur on their back legs.

Platypus live in freshwater rivers, streams, creeks, and ponds. They spend much of their time swimming and hunting for food or resting in burrows along riverbanks.

Platypus are found only in Australia. They live across eastern Australia and Tasmania wherever there is clean freshwater habitat.

Platypus are active all year round. They are most active at dawn, dusk, and during the night.

Platypus eat small water animals such as insect larvae, worms, shrimps, and tadpoles. They use special sensors in their bill to find prey underwater.

Female Platypus usually lay 1-3 eggs, most often two. The babies stay safely in the burrow for several months and can live up to 20 years.

Platypus usually breed between winter and spring. The mother builds a nest in a burrow, incubates the eggs, and feeds her babies with milk until they are ready to leave.

The Platypus is protected throughout Australia. Although still found in many places, it is considered Near Threatened because healthy freshwater habitats are important for its survival.