Platypus Facts

Learn new things about this unusual mammal

• The platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal that has a very unusual appearance, it is duck-billed, has a beaver-like tail, lays eggs, has otter-like fur and webbed feet.
  
• The platypus is only found in eastern Austrailia in small rivers and streams.
  
• The back foot ankle spur of a male platypus contains a venom that is powerful enough to kill small animals such as dogs. 
  
  
  
• Platypuses can live more than 12 years in the wild. Their natural predators include snakes, water rats, hawks, owls, eagle and sometimes crocodiles.
  
• The platypus is an excellent swimmer, diving under water on average for around 30 seconds to forage for food before coming up for air.