Description
The platypus has a flat body. It has a bill or beak like a duck's, webbed feet with five claws for digging and a short, flat tail. The bill and feet of a platypus re black while the fur is usually a dark brown colour. The platypus swims very well but not very fast. While swimming, it has its eyes and eas shut. It finds its way with its bill, which also helps it to find food. While underwater it stores any food it finds in its cheeks. The platypus is a poisonous mammal. Its poison can cause pain to man but it can kill smaller animals. Its fur is one of the most waterproof in the animal kingdom. It is now a protected species.
Habitat
You can find the platypus in Eastern Australia, in and around streams and rivers. It lives in holes underground.
Reproduction
The platypus is one of only two mammls which lay eggs (the other is the echidna, an ant eater also from Australia).
Characteristics
The platypus is a shy animal that spends most of its time alone. It sleeps during the day and comes out at night.
Diet
The platypus eats shrimps, frogs and fish eggs.
Senses
With its bill, the platypus can sense the creatures it wants to eat. It also has an excellent sense of sight and hearing.