Interesting Facts

The Duck-Billed Platypus – One Unique Critter!

Given the uniqueness of the duck-billed platypus, there are many interesting facts about the animal. The platypus may seem cute and cuddly, but this is far from the truth, as male platypuses have venomous spurs about 15 mm long on the inside of both hind legs. These spurs are used to both fend off predators, and to establish male dominance during the mating season. The spurs are quite venomous, packing enough poison to kill a small dog, or inflict excruciating pain in humans.

The Venomous platypus Spur.

Although the platypus is a small creature weighing only a few pounds, it has a voracious appetite. In fact, the platypus often consumes its entire weight in one day! As the platypus is a nocturnal predator, it hunts for insects, larvae, and worms buried in the mud at the bottom of lakes and rivers. The platypus uses electroreceptors located inside its duck-bill to detect its prey very much like radar systems monitor planes near airports. The platypus also uses its duckbill to shovel through the mud to catch its prey.

Platypus Electroreceptors

The one-of-a-kind platypus has become a legend, immortalized by the popular animated TV series called Phineas and Ferb seen on the Disney Channel. Of course I am talking about the dashing secret agent known as Perry the Platypus that saves the world from the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz in every episode. Here’s Perry!!!!!