The platypus is one of our most mysterious native animals.
Parks Victoria has provided some tips for spotting the egg-laying mammal, also known as a monotreme. The echidna is the only other.
Those who want to see a platypus in the wold will need lots of luck and the ability to be silent.
Platypus are widespread in eastern Australia, but they are elusive.
The best time to spot a platypus is dawn or dusk as this is when they hunt.
But they can be spotted any time of day if their seekers are quiet enough.
Wannabe spotters should take a good pair of binoculars and lots of patience.
Any waterway with reasonably clean water, overhanging banks covered with vegetation and surrounding trees can be home to a platypus.
Platypus are native only to Eastern Australia and Tasmania and are found in the waterways of the Yarra Ranges.
Artworks have been created to raise awareness of platypus in the waterways, including murals at Belgrave and Warburton and sculptured rocks in Healesville.
Platypus like to eat small crustaceans and water bugs.
Their young lap up milk released through pores in the skin, rather than teats.
The platypus is the world’s only venomous mammal. The males have spurs on their ankles which can inject poison.
Anyone who spots a platypus should log the sighting at www.platypusSPOT.org.
