Why can't a platypus live in the desert?

Answer 1

A Papua could only survive in the desert if there was a permanent water source there, and a suitable muddy riverbank in which to dig its burrow. Being nocturnal, their shelter would be adequate protection during the hot days. Platypuses need to hunt for their food in freshwater creeks and rivers. Without a readily available food source, the platypus would die.

Answer 2

Platypuses need heavily wooded bushland or rainforest to provide them with protection. Even more importantly, they require clear, freshwater creeks and rivers in which to hunt for food. Deserts do not provide sufficient clear, permanent waterways suitable for a platypus's habitat.