![]() fallen logs, deep pools) and by managing stream-bank erosion. We look after their habitat by maintaining riparian vegetation (which filters run-off into waterways) and in-stream habitat (e.g. Sit quietly by the water at our Liffey Valley, ‘Nameless’ Sylvan or Scottsdale reserves and you might spot this shy species. They were once hunted for their fur – pelts are both warm and waterproof. It’s likely that foxes, dingoes and wild dogs kill Platypuses that venture on land. Platypuses are eaten by snakes, water rats, birds of prey and occasionally crocodiles. Run-off from pasture (sediments and nutrient load) can degrade Platypus habitat. Water quality and in-stream habitat (such as submerged logs) are critical so degradation of these elements is a threat. ![]() Water extraction, dams and diversions to water flow have a big impact. Given their dependence on freshwater systems, habitat destruction and waterway pollution threaten this species. They can live to 12 years old in the wild. While largely solitary, Platypuses don’t mind sharing their waterbody with other individuals. Platypuses don’t have nipples instead milk is secreted through pores and licked off the mother’s skin or fur.īy the time the young are weaned off milk they can swim independently. Here, curled up in protective chambers, they incubate their eggs between their tail and rump.īean-sized babies emerge from the egg after 10 days and are fed milk for about four months. After burrowing deep into the riverbank, pregnant females lay one or two eggs. They can eat an impressive amount of food in a night – up to 20% of their own body weight!įemales breed at 4 years. Instead, they use a grinding plate to mash the gravel, soil and food slurry, scooped from the riverbed. Like echidnas, platypuses don’t have teeth.
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