This September, nature-lovers are encouraged to head down to their local creek or river, to find a quiet spot to look for a platypus and record what they see.
It’s all part of the platy-project, a citizen-science initiative brought to you by the Australian Conservation Foundation and the University of New South Wales.
Looking for a platypus as a part of the platy-project not only helps us better protect platypuses – it’s also a great way to slow down, enjoy some fresh air and connect with nature.
How does the platy-project help protect platypuses?
Platypuses are one of Australia’s most loved icons, but there is still much we don’t know about where this (very elusive) animal lives. With platypus numbers sadly declining, these knowledge gaps are a huge barrier to advocating for better protections.
You can fill these gaps and help give platypuses the protections they need.
Everything we learn at every creek, river and waterway helps platypus thrive – and recording your activity if you don’t see a platypus is just as valuable as if you are lucky enough to see one.
Register to take part at https://www.acf.org.au/platy-project-signup and get access to tips, videos and other resources to prepare you for your platypus search. The interactive platy-project map (developed by platypus scientists at UNSW) helps you find good places near you to try spotting a platypus and lets you record what you see.
Last year, over one thousand people took part in the platy-project right across the platypus’ range, from the tropics of Queensland to the temperate forests of Tasmania. You can help protect platypuses by making this year’s platy-project bigger and better than ever.
For any questions about the platy-project check out this flyer get in touch with the platy-project team at platypus@acf.org.au
