Platypus
Ornithorhynchus anatinus
- Where
- Eastern Australia, Tasmania
- Habitat
- Freshwater rivers, streams, lakes, and billabongs
- Diet
- Insectivorous (aquatic insects, crustaceans, worms)
- Size
- 45-60 cm long, 0.5-1.5 kg weight
- Lifespan
- 8-10 years in wild, up to 15 years captive
- Conservation
- Endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change
Fun Facts
- Only mammal that lays eggs - called monotremes!
- Has venomous spur on hind leg (males only)
- Can detect electric signals from prey underwater
Learn More
Duck-billed snout for finding food in mud
Webbed feet for swimming and diving
Soft, woolly fur that's water-repellent