Where does the platypus live?
The platypus is a semi-aquatic animal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. It lives in fresh waters, from Queensland to Tasmania, including King Island. A population was introduced to Kangaroo Island in the 1920s: it is said to number about 150 individuals in the Rocky River region of Flinders Chase National Park.
What does the platypus eat?
The platypus is an egg-laying mammal, like the four species of echidna: they are the only five monotremes. It has a sense of electrolocation: it detects prey in the water with its eyes, ears and nostrils closed. It is one of the few venomous mammals: the male has a spur on each hind foot that delivers an extremely painful venom. Its bill looks like a duck's, and its tail like a beaver's.
Is the platypus endangered?
The IUCN lists it as Near Threatened. It was hunted for its fur, but has been legally protected since 1912 in all the states where it is found. It is a well-known symbol of Australia, culturally important to several Aboriginal peoples, and it appears on stamps and currency.
