Platypus Encounters in the Moreton Bay Region

The platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal that usually resides in slow-moving rivers, creeks, lakes and dams. These billed mammals build burrows along the water’s edge, often among the tree roots. Luckily for us, the Moreton Bay Region is home to a plethora of waterways platypus call home.

Platypus habitats in the Moreton Bay Region

You can play I Spy Platypi at your leisure in these platypus habitats:

• Centenary Lakes
  
• Burpengary Creek
  
• Cedar Creek
  
• Lagoon Creek in Caboolture – a very active platypus location, with sightings recorded within the last 12 months.

What to look out for when Platypus Spotting

Platypus have a large sensitive bill, flat tail, short legs and webbed front feet. They are often referred to as a combination of a duck, beaver and an otter. They often float low in the water, with their head and rump visible above the water line.

You should look out for circular ripples as these are created when a platypus dives. The best times to spot these animals Brisbane north of the city is at dawn and dusk when they are out and about in the water. Platypus are shy animals so try and keep quiet!

What do Platypus Eat?

Platypus tend to eat crayfish, freshwater shrimps and a variety of insects. There’s plenty of those in our waterways — keeping the platypus full and content. They eat up to a third of their body weight per day — that’s a lot of insects!

How can you help Protect our local Platypus Population?

Unfortunately, platypus are in danger due to visitors being unaware these billed water-dwelling mammals make their home in our waterways.

To help our platypus population thrive do not use traps or nets, such as yabby nets, or crab pots, do not litter, avoid soil erosion and keep pets secure around the waterways.

Injured Wildlife Rescue Hotlines

If you encounter any injured wildlife on your animal spotting adventures in our region please call the appropriate hotline, and ensure you understand how to handle, care and perform first aid on injured wildlife.

• A volunteer-run wildlife rescue service: 5441 6200 (24hr service)
  
• Pine Rivers Koala Care: 0401 350 799 (24hr service)
  
• Moreton Bay Koala Rescue Inc: 0401 080 333 (24hr service)
  
• Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital: 1300 369 652 (24hr service)
  
• If a dog is harassing a koala, contact Council: 3205 0555
  
• Marine strandings and wildlife emergencies (including alive, or dead turtles, whales & dugongs): 1300 130 372

Looking for more wildlife encounters in the Moreton Bay Region? Here are a few:

• Encounter native birds at Osprey House
• Head to Toorbul at dusk and watch the Kangaroo population graze
• Meet our local dugongs in Pumicestone Passage
• Search for koalas at Petrie

Hashtag your next wildlife adventure on Insta #visitmoretonbayregion or tag us @visitmoretonbayregion on Facebook!

Looking for more local wildlife hot spots? Pop into one of the region's Accredited Visitor Information Centres, the volunteers have a wealth of knowledge about things to do and see in the Moreton Bay Region