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When scared, platypuses will do one of several things:
If they are in water, they will stay motionless for up to eight minutes, holding their breath, as they cannot breathe underwater. Their colouring enables them to camouflage, unseen by predators outside of the water.
If the platypus is out of the water, it will dive into the water. If its burrow is nearby, it will seek to escape to its safety. The entrance to its burrow is often disguised by overhanging roots or the shape of the riverbank.
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How do platypuses act?
shy and nice
How do platypuses act towards humans?
Platypuses are very shy, and will avoid humans whenever possible.
Do some people think that platypuses are ugly?
Platypuses are not ugly.
Do platypuses see in black and white?
No. Because platypuses' eyes contain cone receptors, it is believed they can also see colour.
Are platypuses protected by strict laws?
Yes - platypuses are protected, and heavy penalties apply if people flout the laws.
Why do some people say platypuses have six feet or flippers is this true?
Platypuses have just four feet. They do not have flippers.
Are platypuses on a breeding programme?
No. Only two platypuses have ever been known to be bred whilst in captivity. See the related news link.
Do platypuses have eyes?
Yes, platypuses do have eyes, and they use them whenever they are on land. Platypuses close their eyes when they dive and hunt underwater for food. They do not need to see underwater, as they use the electroreceptors in their bills to detect living organisms underwater.
Do people eat platypus?
No. The Australian Aborigines may have hunted platypuses when they pursued their traditional lifestyle, but no-one else eats platypuses.
How do platypuses respond to people?
Platypuses are shy animals which avoid contact with humans as much as possible. When humans approach, they will either disappear into their burrows, or hide underwater. When motionless and avoiding people, platypuses can remain underwater without resurfacing for up to eight minutes.
Why do platypuses need their eyes for?
Same reason as humans do. They need their eyes to see.
Does America have platypuses?
No. America does not have platypuses. Platypuses are endemic to eastern Australia.
