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The Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) Unusual Only two mammals in the world lay eggs. They are the platypus and the echidna. The platypus is the only poisonous marsupial. Tail The tail of the platypus has three uses. It is used as a rudder while the animal is swimming. It is used to move soil in the animal's burrow and it is used to store energy as fat. |
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Range This amazing little animal is found in much of the mountain ranges and rivers of the east coast of Australia. It has also been introduced to Tasmania where it is surviving well. |
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Poisonous Only the male platypus is poisonous. It has spurs on the heels of its hind feet. The spur is connected to a poison gland in the upper part of the leg. The males can sometimes fight over territory or during the breeding season. Enemies The platypus has many enemies in the wild. Introduced animals like cats and foxes will attack a platypus. Other enemies are large snakes, dingoes and large fish. Humans can kill platypuses in their fishing nets or by polluting rivers. Humans also destroy the habitat of the platypus. |
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Welcome to Elton Publications To use this page effectively, you should have a page from 'NetResearch: Animals of Australia". |
