Can a platypus see in the dark?

Answer 1

The platypus only closes its eyes when it is swimming and hunting for food underwater, and this is because it does not need vision to find its food. The bill of a platypus has sensitive electroreceptors which pick up tiny nerve and electrical impulses generated by crustaceans and other animals that inhabit the bottom of the creek or river. The platypus then uses its bill to shovel away the dirt, and find the food.

Answer 2

They have good (if not great) eyesight but do not open their eyes when they are under water.

Instead they use sensitive receptors on their beaks that detect small electrical pulses to hunt for their food (this is called electroception, sharks also have this).

Answer 3

Platypuses have acute vision. However, they may be thought to be blind because they close their eyes when searching underwater for food.

They use a form of electric sensing, where they detect changes in the electric field generated by their bill. The presence of something within that field would cause fluctuations in it, and so the platypus can 'see' the prey by electricity. They close their eyes so as to be able to use the electric sense more efficiently, in the same way that closing our eyes often helps to hear better - it removes confusion.

The position of a platypus's eyes enable it to scan the banks of rivers and creeks to watch for potential predators. Because platypuses' eyes contain cone receptors, it is believed they can also see colour.

Answer 4

The latypus does not see in the mud. When swimming underwater, it closes its eyes. It does not need to see when it is hunting for food in the riverbed, as its bill is equipped with sensitive electroreceptors, something which no other mammal has. These electroreceptors allow the platypus to detect the tiny electrical impulses given out by aquatic invertebrates such as crustaceans and even insect larvae. It can then shovel out the tiny creatures with its bill.

Answer 5

Because so the platypus eyes won't get wet and the platypus can use it's senses

Answer 6

Yes. Platypuses are nocturnal, so they are active at night. Therefore, they have good night vision.

Answer 7

Platypuses are believed to have acute night vision.