Platypuses visit Lake Burley Griffin despite sparse food
At least 20 people have spotted platypuses in Lake Burley Griffin over the past five years.
A video shared this week shows a platypus taking a dip in Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin. Waterwatch data confirms at least 20 people have seen platypuses in the lake over the past five years.
A Platypus Month survey found 37 platypuses across the wider region. Experts suggest one male may have been forced out by rivals during breeding season.
The animals don't stay long in the lake because it lacks good habitat and enough food to survive. The cement edge, lack of natural riverbanks, and few water bugs make it unsuitable for long-term living.
Experts say keeping waterways clean is vital to supporting platypuses and other urban wildlife.
- At least 20 in five years
- Platypus sightings in lake
- 37 this year
- Platypuses in region
- Daniel Harris-Pascal
- Waterwatch facilitator
- Cement edge, no natural riverbanks
- Lake problem
Why it mattersShows urban waterways can support iconic Australian wildlife if kept clean, even one as particular as the platypus.
AustraliaCanberra residents learn their city harbours platypuses; highlights importance of protecting water quality in urban parks and lakes.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
