Platypus in Australia

Platypus is kind of mammal that can be found in the eastern regions of Australia and also in Tasmania. The scientific name of this amazing animal is "Ornithorhynchus Anatinus". These mammals are semi aquatic animals. The name of the family of this Platypus is Ornithorhynchidae and the genus is Ornithorhynchus and Platypus is the last living member of this gradually perishing family.

Monotreme is the species that the Platypus belongs to. There are total five members of this species including the Platypus. The other four species are echidna. The most unique fact about these mammals is that these Platypuses do not give birth to their children; rather they lay eggs.

The first platypus to be scientifically described came from the banks of a lake near the Hawkesbury River, near Sydney, in 1797. The British Museum received a stuffed platypus in 1798, but the scientists thought it was a fake. Later they were to learn that it layed eggs!

The platypus is found in lakes, streams and rivers of eastern Australia, from Tasmania to south of Cooktown in Queensland. They have also been introduced to Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Whilst common in these areas, because of their shyness they are difficult to observe but may be seen partially submerged near the surface.

This unusual animal, Platypus is one of the strangest creatures of nature. The mammal is quite beautiful in its look. The whole body of Platypus is covered with fur and it has a large, flat tail.

This warm-blooded animal also resembles to some extent to the reptiles. Platypuses are mostly found in the streams and rivers. Between the months of June and October, the Platypuses become prepared for mating.

The skin of the webbed front paws extends beyond the long claws. In the water they expand and act as broad paddles. Out of the water the skin folds under the foot, making it easier for the animal to walk and use its strong claws for digging burrows. The webbing on the hind foot does not extend beyond the bases of the claws.

The hind feet, together with the tail acting as a rudder, provides stability and directional control. The male has a poisonous, horny spur, about half an inch (1cm) long on the inside of each hind leg. This is connected to a poison gland. A scratch from this may cause a painful swelling in humans, no deaths have been recorded.

This is the most suitable mating season for them. When the young platypuses are born they are blind and do not have hair on head. Though they are born through eggs, after coming to the earth, they fully depend on the mother's milk. They continue this process for three to four months.

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