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The male platypus has a hollow spur on its hind ankle through which it releases venom which is strong enough to kill a small dog, or cause agony for a human.

A young female platypus has a non-venomous spur up until it is about 12 months old. The female's spurs then fall off.

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12y ago

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How do you know if it is a female platypus or male platypus?

The male platypus has a venomous spur on his hind leg. He is also considerably larger than the female.


What is the ankle spur on the hind leg of a platypus called?

There is no particular name for the ankle spur which dispenses venom in a male platypus. It is simply referred to as a 'spur'.


Why does a male platypus have a venomous spur on its leg?

Not enough research has been done into why or how the platypus uses its venomous spur. It is believed to be a defence mechanism, and possibly for use when the male is courting a female, and wishes to ward off another male.


Does a male platypus have a name?

No. There is no specific name for a male platypus.


Are platypus harmful?

The male has a poisonous spur behinds it back left leg. However if you leave it alone it will leave you alone.


What is the purpose of the claw like spur located behind the male platypus's ankles?

There is insufficient research to determine the purpose of the venomous spur on a male platypus. It is believed to be a defence mechanism, and possibly for use when the male is courting a female, and wishes to ward off another male.


What is the male platypus's name?

There is no particular name for the male platypus. Unlike the males (or females) of some species, there is no special designation for the male platypus.


How long is the male Platypus's spur?

The male platypus's spur is about 15 mm in length.


Are male platypuses venomous?

Yes. Male platypuses have a hollow spur behind their rear ankle which is attached to a venom gland in the platypus's thigh. The female is not venomous.


What is the name for a male platypus?

Neither the male nor the female platypus has any specific name.


Does the mother and father ever leave the platypus behind?

The male has no part in the rearing of a young platypus. The female will not willingly leave the young behind. She is a dutiful mother, going without food and waters while incubating the eggs and in the early days after the eggs have hatched.


Do male platypuses have poisonous talons?

Not exactly. Male platypuses have a hollow spur behind their rear ankle which is attached to a venom gland in the platypus's thigh. This spur is not a talon or claw.