Platypus are unlike any other animal found on earth, but due to habitat destruction, bushfires, drought and pollution this freshwater icon is threatened with extinction.
By mapping where platypus live we can track - and then prevent - declines in numbers.
That’s where you can help. There are places within the platypus’ range where sightings have never been recorded, or where they haven’t been seen for a long time. These are our biggest gaps in knowledge.
You can help researchers fill these gaps by visiting these priority areas, look for platypuses, and upload your findings.
Once again this September, we’re asking our community to head down to our local creek or river, find a quiet place on the bank, try to spot a platypus and record what we see.
Check the project website to read more about the project and look at the map of habitat and sightings.
The best times to see platypus are dawn and dusk, so feel free to stroll through anytime from 3-6pm
This event will include a Welcome to Country by a traditional owner, who will play didgeridoo and tell us about the cultural significance of the platypus!
We will also be joined by a local platypus expert!
Things you might want to bring:
- A rug or small cushion to sit on
- Snacks and a water bottle
- Binoculars
- A warm jumper or coat, in case the weather cools
- A torch
Please be aware the closest public toilet is at Darra BMX facility, 58 Monier rd, Darra
If you want to learn more about the platy-project and the platypus beforehand, then come to the Platy month launch webinar on Thursday 31 August at 6:30pm: RSVP here.
If you are not currently a member of an ACF Community group you can find your nearest group here.
We can’t promise you will see a platypus, but we hope you will be motivated to continue looking by yourself in other waterways near you.