Does a platypus mark or protect its territory?

Answer 1

Yes. Platypuses are both territorial and solitary. Males, in particular, are territorial, especially during breeding season. Males tend to have a linear territory that extends for up to three kilometres along a creek or riverbank, while the females' territory extends around 1 km in length. This means that the male often has territorial rights over more than one female.

Answer 2

Yes, platypuses do indicate and protect their territory, but only by making a growling sound. Territories tend to overlap, and it's only when territory becomes too crowded that younger platypuses are evicted.

Although little research has been done on how and why the platypus uses its venomous spur, territory-marking is believed to have nothing to do with the platypus's venom. The male platypus is thought to use its venomous ankle spur as protection against predators, and possibly when fighting over a female.

Answer 3

No, the platypus is not gregarious. It is a solitary animal.

Answer 4

Platypuses mark and protect their territory by making a growling sound. They do not use physical markers such as scents.

Answer 5

No, platypuses are generally solitary animals.

Answer 6

No. Platypuses are not aggressive at all.