The Platypus is an iconic species that is unique to Australia. Along with echidnas they are egg laying mammals collectively known as monotremes. Platypus are nocturnal and often hard to spot in the wild and can live for up to 12 years in the wild. 

Platypus close their eyes and ears under water and use their duck like bill as an 'electroreceptor' to pick up the electrical signals of its prey as it forages through the mud.  

Find out more about platypus at the Australian Platypus Conservancy website.

The Wollondilly is abundant in wildlife and plants and we know that Platypus occur in the Bargo and Nepean Rivers and Werri Berri Creek. 

Wollondilly council is currently collaborating with Campbelltown and Camden councils to take water samples at various locations across the shire which can then be tested for Platypus DNA. We are also encouraging the local community to use the PlatypusSPOT app to record sightings. You can download the app by clinking on the links below.