PLATYPUS

Photographed at Jenolan Caves, NSW.

35            PLATYPUS                Ornithorhynchus anatinus 

AUSTRALIA               35

Monotreme (the other monotreme being the echidna). Locally command widespread throughout e. coast of Australia from Cooktown (Q) to sw Vic., also Tasmania. Inhabits freshwater streams, lakes, shallow reservoirs and farm dams. Prefers areas with steep baks in which to burrow. Shy and difficult to observe. Mostly crepuscular and nocturnal but may be diurnal. Largely solitary. Feeds on benthic invertebrates, which stores in cheek pushes until can chew while floating on surface. Lays two eggs in nest/burrow, young left in burrow and fed by mother for 4-5 months.