Throughout September, thousands of people like you will head down to your local creeks, rivers and lakes in search of a platypus to help this Australian icon thrive.

Platypus numbers are declining each decade, but our combined efforts can help reverse the trend.

By looking for a platypus and recording what you see, you’ll help platypus researchers, campaigners and community members better understand where platypuses live and how we can better advocate for the protections they need.

Here is a reminder of all the resources, tips and information you need to go searching for a platypus this September.

  • The platy-project map: Use the map to browse past platypus sightings in your area, find a good spot for your search, log your findings after you have looked for a platypus, and look up local events to go platy-spotting with like-minded community members.

  • The platy-project toolkit: A detailed resource with written information and videos about how to prepare for your platypus search, what to do with your findings, and how to host a survey event.

  • Watch: Online launch recording: Last night 300 people joined together on Zoom to launch the platy-project – thanks to everyone who tuned in! If you missed out, watch the recording of this inspiring discussion with platypus experts, campaigners and past platy-project participants.

  • If you have any questions or need help throughout September, reach out to our team at platypus@acf.org.au.

PLATYPUS

You’ll never forget your first platypus encounter!

It’s a magical moment when this strange and adorable creature emerges from ripples in the water.

This September, we’re asking people like you to head down to their local creek or river, find a quiet place on the bank, try to spot a platypus and record what you see. You might be surprised by the places the elusive platypus calls home. In urban rivers, suburban creeks, farm dams, and local reservoirs – a platypus probably lives closer than you think. By taking part in the platy-project, you’ll help researchers understand more about this elusive animal and how we can better protect it.

Previous local sightings:

  • Kilmore Creek, between Union Street and Kilmore Leisure Centre.

  • Deep Creek, Darraweit Guim to Romsey Road.

  • Sunday Creek, Clonbinane to Smedleys Lane.

  • KurKuroc Creek, just east of the Northern Highway.

CHECK THE MAP: https://platy-project.acf.org.au/

HELP US KEEP PLASTIC OUT
OF OUR WATER COURSES!

RAKALI

Rakali, or golden-bellied water rat: (binomial Hydromys (water mouse) chrysogaster (golden belly) and it's an Australian native rodent. Indigenous people on the Murray called them ‘rakali’, and that name is probably preferable to water rat because they are rather different to the European water rat or water vole. They also differ from the North American muskrat, though comparable in size, being up to 60 to 70 cm long including the tail, which is furry and with a white tip like a ringtail. They weigh up to 0.8 to1 kg, about the same as a ringtail. The feet are partially webbed, which is why they can be seen to ‘swim like a fish’. In fact, in habit and diet they are more like a small otter, feeding on crustaceans, shellfish and small fish. They also share some habits and habitat with platypuses, and the best information link for them is the Australian Platypus Conservancy.

Its body is elongated and streamlined, and its tail is thick and muscular to help serve as a rudder when swimming. The hind feet are partly webbed and have a broad palm for efficient paddling.

The ears are small and can be folded flat against the head, and the muzzle is blunt and furnished with a dense set of long whiskers.

The fur repels water, drying quickly once animals exit the water.

HELP US KEEP PLASTIC OUT
OF OUR WATER COURSES!