Platypus' Fat Storage

The platypus stores fat in it's tail to help it survive when food is limited.

Picture from Amamoore Lodge

An adaptation also found in animals such as the Tasmanian devil and fat-tailed sheep, the platypus tail is mainly made up of a fatty tissue that is used to store energy supplies, which the animal can use when there is a shortage of food, such as in the winter months.  It also acts as a form of insulation. 

The platypus stores fat in its tail to help it survive when food is limited - See more at: http://www.livescience.com/27572-platypus.html#sthash.g5XSb8ez.dpuf

Very Venomous Platypus

 The male platypus is one of the few venomous mammals.

 

Picture from Zoos Victoria

Both male and female platypuses are born with ankle spurs, but only the male's spurs produce venom.   While the venom is powerful enough to kill smaller animals such as dogs, it is not lethal to humans.  However, the pain can be so excruciating that the victim may be unable to move.

Duck-Billed Platypus: A Venomous Creature

You likely know the duck-billed platypus as a goofy-looking, harmless creature, known largely for being one of the very few mammals to lay eggs. Turns out, the platypus is actually a dangerous, venomous creature.

Sure, the duck-billed platypus looks mild enough...

Male platypus' have a spur in their hind limbs that can deliver a debilitating sting that cause immediate and excruciating pain in its victims, leaving them incapacitated for weeks, sometimes even months. These stings aren't lethal to humans (only small animals) but it is certainly not pleasant!

... until it pokes you with this!

Why does the platypus, a typically docile creature with few natural predators, need venom? Scientist theorize that the venom is used to fight off other males during mating season.

Platypuses Start Out Small

The platypus is one of two mammals that lays eggs. The female platypus usually lays one or two eggs, and they hatch within ten days. Newborn platypuses are the size of a lima bean, and the mothers feed and nurture them for about four months until they’re ready to live on their own. 

Ankle spurs - for males only

You may have heard that the platypus is an egg laying mammal, but you may not know it is also venomous like the scorpion! But only the males come equipped with poison. Their venom is located in ankle spurs on the hind feet.

A platypus also stores fat in its tail. This is a trait is shares with the Tasmanian Devil (no, they’re not just a cartoon!) Both of these critters live in Australia—another place I’d like to visit.


JJ