What makes the platypus such an interesting animal?


The platypus is a mammal who lays eggs and has an incubation period approximately 10 days. They hunt by detecting minute electric fields of prey with sensitive bill and adult males have venomous spurs. They also have thick fur which provides insulation against cold water. While they are difficult to keep and breed in managed care settings, there are a few platypuses in zoos. Currently, two reside at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and all others in Australian collections.