Platypus
Scientific name: Ornithorhynchus anatinus
Unique semi-aquatic egg-laying mammal with a duck bill and beaver tail.
Quick facts
- Approximate size40–50 cm
- Average weight1–2.4 kg
- Life expectancy10–17 years
- ActivityCrepuscular / nocturnal
Basic information
- Home: freshwater rivers, streams and lakes with soft banks for digging burrows.
- Food: aquatic invertebrates, small crustaceans and larvae located through electroreception.
- Sexual dimorphism: males are larger and have venomous spurs on their hind legs.
- Predators: snakes, raptors, foxes and other mammals; young can be preyed upon in poorly located burrows.
Life in the wild
What this species is like in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
Species overview
The platypus is a unique mammal in the world, adapted to life in Australian freshwater streams.
Natural habitat
Prefers streams and rivers with good water quality, riparian vegetation and banks for digging burrows for shelter and reproduction.
Behavior
Spends many hours swimming and diving for food, alternating periods of activity with rest in its burrow.
Special traits
Combines characteristics of reptiles, birds and mammals: lays eggs, has a bill, but also fur and mammary glands.
Conservation and threats
Water pollution, bank alteration and hydraulic works threaten its habitat in various areas.
Curiosities
Striking details about this species that show its biology and ecology in a different way.
- One of the few mammals that lay eggs.
- Uses electric receptors in its bill to detect prey underwater.
- Male spurs can produce painful venom.
- Its combination of traits baffled the first European scientists who studied it.
Welfare profile
Aspects to consider if this species is kept in captivity at specialized centers.
Facilities and spaceCritical
In captivity requires extensive and deep aquatic facilities with high quality and temperature-controlled water.
Light, temperature and environmentCritical
Needs varied diet of invertebrates and other aquatic foods, adjusted to its underwater foraging behavior.
Handling and stressVery delicate
Direct handling is complex and potentially dangerous due to venomous male spurs.
Platypus in captivity
General information aimed at professional facilities and authorized centers.
⚠️ Capture and trade of mammals like this species are regulated in many countries. Essential to verify legal origin of animals and prioritize responsible breeding programs and habitat conservation.
Suitable facilities
Maintenance is limited to a few centers in Australia with specific experience.
Feeding in responsible centers
- Enclosures combine burrow tunnels and soft banks.
- Large volumes of high-quality water.
- Diet of fresh aquatic invertebrates.
Handling and welfare
Public access is usually very controlled to reduce stress and respect its nocturnal habits.
Ethical message
Conserving clean and connected rivers is the best strategy to protect the species long-term.
This information is for educational purposes and does not replace advice from specialized professionals or consultation of current legislation.