Nosing Around - Platypus - Giclee Edition

The Platypus is one of Australia’s most beloved species, however, it is feared sadly that their numbers are dwindling silently. They are a uniquely Australian species. Along with echidnas, Platypuses are grouped in a separate order of mammals known as monotremes, which are distinguished from all other mammals because they lay eggs. They occur in freshwater systems from tropical rainforest lowlands and plateaus of far northern Queensland to cold, high altitudes of Tasmania and the Australian Alps. Feeding in both slow-moving and rapid parts of streams and show a preference for foraging amongst cobbles and gravel, and sifting through leaf litter on the river bed.

Platypuses are well adapted for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Their streamlined body and a broad, flat tail are covered with dense waterproof fur, which provides excellent thermal insulation. The Platypus propels itself through the water by using its front, short, webbed limbs, and the partially-webbed hind feet act as rudders. Behind its distinctive bill are the grooves that house the ear openings and the eyes which close when the animal dives. The Platypus uses its tail for the storage of fat reserves and the strong claws on its feet for burrowing and moving on land.