One of the theories proposed for the existence of platypuses only in Australia is because of the lack of predators in Australia. Platypuses, on the whole, are relatively defenceless creatures, despite the presence of a venomous spur on the make's hind ankle. They would be no match for larger predators such as those found on other continents.
Platypuses are found in a variety of temperatures and climates, from the cooler sub-alpine areas in the south, such as Victoria and the Tasmanian highlands, north through New South Wales to tropical far north Queensland. They can survive extremes of heat that occur in Victorian summers as well as the cold winters. Platypuses live in bushland as well as tropical, sub-tropical and temperate rainforests. They can live in this range of climate and temperature because the water in which they seek food tends to maintain a fairly steady temperature.
The platypus is a relatively defenceless animal, and there are far fewer potential natural predators of the platypus in Australia than there are in other continents. There are also fewer competitors for the platypus's food source.
Various theories have been proposed regarding why the platypus lives only in Australia. The most likely theory is that the lack of land predators allowed this relatively defenceless creature to thrive in its secluded environment.
The platypus does not need to adapt to the Australian environment. This is its natural habitat, and the one for which it is perfectly suited. It has a number of adaptations which enable it to live in its Australian semi-aquatic environment. It has:
The platypus is a symbol of Australia because, quite simply, it is not found anywhere else in the world. It is unique to Australia, completely endemic.
becaus its the ideal inviorment
Because Australia has the right habitat
They are both native animals in Australia. The kangaroo is the national symbol of Australia, it is also on the tails of the national airline - Qantas. The platypus has been used as a mascot for the Olympic Games.
The platypus is endemic to eastern Australia. It is not found in Western Australia at all.
No. The platypus is native to Australia. There have never been platypuses in Britain.
The Platypus does live in Eastern Australia
The platypus is called the platypus wherever one happens to be in Australia.
The platypus is found in eastern Australia.
Yes. The platypus is certainly one of Australia's native animals.
Yes. The platypus is native to Australia alone.
The platypus was found by European settlers in Australia in the 1700s.
No. The platypus is not found in China. It is found only in Australia.
Koalas, Platypus
The platypus is native to the eastern states of Australia, which include Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. It is found in freshwater creeks and rivers within native bushland.