The platypus (or duck-billed platypus) of Tasmania. Whilst in the Cradle Mountain area of Tasmania we were lucky enough to have several good sightings of platypus in rivers and lakes. Very exciting to see these curious and iconic animals of Australia. This animal was one of the high priority targets for this trip. What an interesting animal. It is not surprising that the first scientists to examine a platypus judged it a fake and made of several animals sewn together! watching the platypus (or duck-billed platypus) of Tasmania was a real treat.
The duck-billed platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is one of the most unique and intriguing mammals. The platypus has a distinctive appearance, featuring a flat, duck-like bill, webbed feet, and a beaver-like tail. Its streamlined body is ideally adapted for an aquatic lifestyle, allowing it to swim efficiently in rivers and streams while foraging for food underwater. Males are on the average about 50cm in length and weigh about 1.7kg. The smaller female weighs around 0.9kg and has an average length of 43cm.
The platypus relies on electrolocation to detect the movement of prey since their eyes, ears and nose are closed whilst underwater. Electroreceptors are found in the skin of the bill. They also have mechanoreceptors in the bill for touch. Their diet mainly consists of aquatic insects, larvae, and crustaceans. It stores food in cheek pouches for later consumption.
Platypus are one of only five extant species of monotremes which includes the Echidna. They are unique among mammals as they lay eggs instead of giving live birth. Monotreme means “single opening or hole” in Greek, referring to the single duct (the cloaca) for their urinary, defecatory, and reproductive systems. Their biology is absolutely fascinating!
Key words: Australia, Australian, Tasmania, Tasmanian, Cradle Mountain, wildlife, nature, animals, safari, platypus, duck-billed platypus, monotreme