Plight of the Platypus

Help save Australia's platypus from disappearing.

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PLATYPUS ARE SHY, elusive creatures that are highly dependent on freshwater ecosystems. As their habitats are depleted, these iconic animals are increasingly threatened. Throughout the eastern states, stream and river flows have contracted during the past decade due to drought, damming and water extraction. This, along with discarded fishing nets and traps, erosion of riverbanks and feral animals, has played a major role in reducing platypus numbers.

Did you know?

*The platypus is one of only a handful of monotremes, or mammals that lay eggs. The eggs are 15-18mm long and have a whitish, papery shell like those of lizards and snakes.

*A platypus's coat consists of two layers of fur - the inside layer to keep them warm and the outside which is water resistant.

*The platypus is the only Australian mammal known to be venomous. Adult males have a sharp, curved spur on each hind leg that can inject poison.

Protecting an icon

Little is known about the size and distribution of platypus populations, though it is predicted that the species will continue to decline and, in some locations, disappear completely.

Once found in the Adelaide Hills and Mount Lofty Ranges of SA, they are now extinct in that state (except for a population introduced to Kangaroo Island).

"We need to stop thinking of platypuses as 'common' - in some areas they are down to quite low numbers and we really need to take some fairly drastic measures," says Geoff Williams, a biologist with the Australian Platypus Conservancy.

Donations will help scientists working on platypus conservation and freshwater ecosystems across Australia to determine which actions need to be taken to ensure the ongoing survival of the species.

How can you help?

You can help the Australian Geographic Society raise funds for the platypus by donating online. You can also buy a magnet, or make a donation in any AG Store, or send a cheque or money order to AGS, GPO Box 4088, Sydney, NSW 2001. Please write "Platypus appeal" on the back of the envelope.

DONATE NOW   - Your support will make a difference.