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Here we are at the start of another year, and to carry on from before the Christmas posts starting with a creature post and this weeks creature is the Platypus. Yes I did a post about it back in 2019 but here is another one.
When first discovered by Europeans this odd looking mammal was described as a cross between a duck and a beaver. Today we know it is as unique to Australia and one of two egg-laying mammals, the other being the echidna.
It has a rubbery bill, streamlined body and flat club-like tail that stores fat. The claws on its front feet are used for digging burrows in riverbanks, while its webbed legs and feet make it quite a swimmer.
The platypus is one of the worlds few venomous mammals the males have a sharp spur on their ankles which is connected to a venom gland in the upper leg. The venom won't kill you but the pain is suppose to be excruciating.
It is a gentle, friendly looking animal, shaped well for its living environment. But I have not heard about the venomous spur on its ankles.
ReplyDeleteI also didn't know about the spurs
DeleteThe venomous spur is a new one on me, too, Jo-Anne. Such an odd and interesting creature!
ReplyDeleteI think it would be new to many of us
DeleteVery interesting to find these things out about them. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteYes they are interesting, thanks for dropping by
DeleteGood read Jo-Anne, haven't been to our platypus house in Beauty Point as yet, have been in the town many times but never visited the 'house'.
ReplyDeleteI am pleased you liked the post
DeleteThey are the strangest combination of creatures! lol!
ReplyDeleteStrange indeed
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