Platypus
ExploreMammals
Platypus
Ornithorhynchus anatinus
The platypus is a unique mammal that lays eggs and has a duck-like bill. They are excellent swimmers with webbed feet and a waterproof fur coat.
Habitat: Freshwater
Appearance
The Platypus has a sleek, streamlined body covered in dense, brown fur that stays dry underwater. It features a distinct, rubbery, duck-like bill and broad, webbed front feet. Its flat, beaver-like tail is used for storing fat.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderMonotremataFamilyOrnithorhynchidaeGenusOrnithorhynchus
Category
MammalsRarity
Rare
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Platypus fur is so dense it traps air to stay dry and warm underwater!
Platypuses are one of only two mammals known to glow under UV light!
They use cheek pouches to store snacks found underwater before surfacing to eat!
When diving, Platypus closes its eyes, ears, and nose with special folds!
Special abilities
Ability
Electro-Sense Bill
Platypus can find prey in murky water because its sensitive bill detects tiny electric signals from other animals.
Ability
Venomous Defense
Male Platypus can deliver a powerful, painful sting with a venomous spur found on each of its hind legs.
Ability
Egg-laying Mammal
The Platypus has the unique ability to lay eggs, making it one of only a few mammals that don't give live birth.
Ability
Webbed Paddle Feet
The Platypus has webbed front feet that can retract, helping it swim powerfully, then walk easily on land.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 30-45 cm
- Weight
- 0.7-2.4 kg
- Lifespan
- 10-17 years
- Top Speed
- 5.4 km/h
- Litter Size
- 1-3
- Gestation
- 27-30 days
Diet & Feeding
They feast on small creatures they find by foraging underwater in rivers and streams.
Primary Foods
- insect larvae
- freshwater shrimp
- worms
- yabbies
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
White-bellied Sea Eagle
Haliaeetus leucogaster
eats platypus if opportunity arises
eaten by
Dingo
Canis dingo
can prey on platypus near water
eats
Common Yabby
Cherax destructor
hunts and eats these crustaceans
Traits
Webbed Feet
Characterized by having toes connected by a membrane, typically aiding in swimming.
Ancient Lineage
This trait signifies organisms belonging to a very old evolutionary group with ancestors dating back millions of years.
Carnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of animal tissue.
Electrogenic
This trait describes organisms capable of generating electric fields or electric shocks.
Freshwater
Freshwater habitats include non-saline aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and wetlands, vital for numerous species.
Vampiric
Vampiric organisms are those that obtain nutrients by feeding on the blood or bodily fluids of other animals.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Venomous
Venomous organisms produce toxins that are injected into another animal, typically through a bite or sting.
Also known as
Duck-billed Platypus
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Platypuses are shy creatures, so it's best to observe them from a distance in their natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Platypus?
30-45 cm
How much does Platypus weigh?
0.7-2.4 kg
How long does Platypus live?
10-17 years
How fast can Platypus move?
5.4 km/h
What does Platypus eat?
They feast on small creatures they find by foraging underwater in rivers and streams.
Where is Platypus usually found?
Freshwater
How does Platypus hunt?
Foraging
How many babies does Platypus usually have?
1-3
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
