Platypus - a photo on Flickriver

Platypus

            On our way back to the Visitor Centre at Cradle Mountain, the bus driver received a message that there was a Platypus foraging in the mud on the side of the road. She knew just where to stop and stayed there for everyone to have a look. It is the first time we have seen a Platypus in the wild. We have only seen them in captivity before. We were lucky as it was on the same side of the bus as we were, so I managed a couple of photos.

 The platypus, sometimes referred to as the duck-billed platypus, is a semiaquatic, egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. Wikipedia.

Platypuses range in length from 38 to 60 cm (15 to 24 inches); males are generally larger than females. Aquatic adaptations include the flat streamlined body, dorsally placed eyes and nostrils, and dense waterproof fur that keeps the platypus well insulated. Long guard hairs protect the soft underfur, which remains dry even after hours in the water. The extensive webbing on the front feet extends well past the claws and is essential in propelling the animal through the water. The paddlelike tail acts as a stabilizer during swimming, while the back feet act as rudders and brakes.

Male platypuses have a spur on the inner side of each ankle that is connected to a venom gland located over the thighs. The spurs can be wielded in defense, and the venom is potent enough to kill small animals and cause intense pain in humans if the spur penetrates the skin.

Taken on: May 8, 2024

Tags:

Holiday

Travel

Animal

Platypus

in the wild

egg laying mammal

crafty1tutu

Canon 5D Mark IV

Canon 24 - 105 L series lens

Ann Cameron « less

Sets appears in: • Tasmania 2024

Groups appears in: • Flickr Australia • flickr (unofficial)

Stats: 357 views / 11 comments

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