The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a monotreme native to eastern Australia. Well-known for its odd appearance – duck bill, otter feet, and beaver tail – and egg-laying habits, the platypus initially baffled European explorers and was once dismissed as a hoax. It is today one of Australia's most iconic animals. They are classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Like other monotremes and one species of dolphin, platypuses can detect their aquatic prey by electrolocation, detecting the minute electrical impulses given off by their prey's muscles. They are also one of the rare few mammals that are venomous, the males possessing a toxic spur on each hind foot.

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See also

• mammal
• monotreme
• echidna
• platypus
• anatid bill

External links

Platypus - Wikipedia