Photo © G.

Barry Baker

Amazing Species: Platypus

Endemic to Australia, from eastern Queensland to King Island and Tasmania, the Platypus
(Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is one of the few egg-laying mammals, known as monotremes.
Platypus numbers are decreasing.
Geographical range
The Platypus is recognisable for its duckbill, webbed feet, paddle-shaped tail and thick
waterproof fur. Its bill allows the animal to sense electric currents in water, which aids in
catching prey. Male Platypuses have venomous stingers on their rear feet, which are used
to compete against other males during the mating season.
As it depends on freshwater habitats, the predominant threat to this species is the reduction
in stream and river flows caused by droughts and water extraction. At the opposite extreme,
it is also at risk from flooding, associated with climate change. Bank erosion and stream
The IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species™
sedimentation caused by poor land management practices are another serious concern.
is made possible through the Further threats include pollution in urban areas, accidental drowning in nets and traps, and
Red List Partnership with the
support of the IUCN-Toyota predation by dogs, foxes and cats.
Red List Partnership.
Amazing Species
The Platypus is legally protected across Australia and occurs in many national parks and
is sponsored by reserves.

iucnredlist.org | 2020