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Platypus

Near ThreatenedPerfect for drawing

Ornithorhynchus anatinus

Also known as: Duck-billed Platypus

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The platypus is one of nature's strangest creatures - an egg-laying mammal with a duck's bill, beaver's tail, and venomous spurs.

platypus swimming in clear water, duck-billed monotreme with beaver-like tail

Did you know?

Amazing Facts

1

When scientists first discovered platypuses, they thought it was a hoax - someone had sewn a duck's beak onto a beaver's body

2

Platypuses are one of only five species of monotremes - mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young

3

Male platypuses have venomous spurs on their hind legs capable of causing severe pain to humans

About Platypus

The platypus is one of nature's strangest creatures - an egg-laying mammal with a duck's bill, beaver's tail, and venomous spurs.

When scientists first discovered platypuses, they thought it was a hoax - someone had sewn a duck's beak onto a beaver's body

Quick Stats

Location
Eastern Australia and Tasmania
Lifespan
Up to 17 years in captivity
Size
15-24 inches (38-60 cm)
Weight
1.5-5.3 pounds (0.7-2.4 kg)

Habitat

Eastern Australia and Tasmania freshwater streams and rivers

Diet

Insect larvae, freshwater shrimp, and crayfish

Did you know?

When scientists first discovered platypuses, they thought it was a hoax - someone had sewn a duck's beak onto a beaver's body

Platypus - Random Animal Facts & Information

Scientifically known as Ornithorhynchus anatinus, the Platypus is a fascinating creature that inhabits Eastern Australia and Tasmania. These remarkable animals are known for when scientists first discovered platypuses, they thought it was a hoax - someone had sewn a duck's beak onto a beaver's body

Random Animal to Draw: The Platypus is perfect for drawing inspiration with its unique characteristics. Artists love to capture the platypus's distinctive features in their artwork. In their natural habitat of Eastern Australia and Tasmania freshwater streams and rivers, Platypuss thrive by maintaining a diet consisting of insect larvae, freshwater shrimp, and crayfish.

Fun Facts: When scientists first discovered platypuses, they thought it was a hoax - someone had sewn a duck's beak onto a beaver's body Platypuses are one of only five species of monotremes - mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young Male platypuses have venomous spurs on their hind legs capable of causing severe pain to humans With an average lifespan of Up to 17 years in captivity, these animals typically reach sizes of 15-24 inches (38-60 cm) and weigh approximately 1.5-5.3 pounds (0.7-2.4 kg).

The conservation status of Platypus is currently classified as Near Threatened, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures and their natural habitats.

Random Animal Generator with Pictures & Facts

This Platypus page is part of our random animal generator with pictures and facts. Each animal in our collection features verified information, making it perfect for education, discovery, or finding your next random animal to draw.

Platypus Facts & Pictures | Random Animal Discovery