Platypus
We are delighted that Walter Bock has become the sponsor of the platypus!
The platypus(Ornithorhynchus anatinus), also known as Platypus, is the last representative of its family of platypuses(Ornithorhynchidae). It is only found in the east and south-east of Australia and on Tasmania.
The platypus belongs to the egg-laying mammals or cloacal animals, of which there are only 5 different species left today. It is therefore considered a living fossil. The other 4 species all belong to the echidna family(Tachyglossidae).
Appearance
The appearance of the platypus is unmistakable and unique. You could be forgiven for thinking it was made up of different animals, which is why many scientists initially thought it was a joke when they first saw it. The most striking and at the same time name-giving feature is the large, flexible beak, which is reminiscent of the shape of a duck. The tail is broad and flattened and thus resembles the tail of a beaver. The entire body, which can grow up to 40 cm long, is covered in brown, water-repellent fur. The feet of the platypus also have webbed toes. Another special feature is the fact that male platypuses have venomous spurs on their hind legs, which they mainly use in mating fights. This makes the platypus one of the very few mammals that are venomous.
Habitat
Clean, stagnant and flowing freshwater habitats are the preferred habitat of the platypus. Here it goes in search of its favourite prey, which mainly consists of invertebrates such as worms, insect larvae and crustaceans. When hunting, it uses its very sensitive electro- and mechanoreceptors in its beak to track down its prey in open water or mud. The eyes and ears remain closed under water.
Reproduction
The breeding season of the platypus is between June and October, in Australian late winter to spring. A clutch typically consists of three soft eggs, which are more similar to reptile eggs than bird eggs. These are laid in a burrow up to 20 metres long, which has previously been built by the female. The eggs are then incubated for around 10 days until the naked, blind young, which are only around 25 mm long, are born. They then take around 5 months to leave the burrow for the first time.
Threat status
The platypus population is currently categorised as "near threatened". The main reasons for this include environmental pollution, the construction of dams and a fungal disease that affects platypuses in Tasmania. The platypus is therefore highly protected in Australia and Tasmania and is generally not allowed to be exported.