Have you ever seen a platypus in real life? If you have, then you can't deny that they look strange!
Platypuses are exciting animals for many reasons, but their appearance isn't the most interesting thing about them.
Let's find out more about the things that make these animals so surprising.
Egg-laying mammals
Platypuses are one of the few mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young.
The eggs are soft and leathery, similar to reptile eggs.
Venomous spur
Male platypuses have a venomous spur on their hind legs.
It's not dangerous to humans, but it can cause pain and swelling if you get stung.
Duck-billed and webbed feet
The platypus has a bill that looks like a duck's beak. It helps them search for food underwater.
They also have webbed feet that make them excellent swimmers.
Electroreception
Platypuses have a special ability called electroreception, which means they can detect electrical signals.
They use this ability to find prey in the water.
No stomach
Unlike most mammals, platypuses don't have a true stomach.
They have a simple digestive system that allows them to digest their food quickly.
No external ears
Platypuses don't have external ears like we do.
Instead, they have ear openings on the sides of their heads that are covered by skin and fur.
Nocturnal creatures
Platypuses are mainly active during the night.
They spend their days resting in burrows they dig along the banks of rivers and streams.
Excellent swimmers
Platypuses are well-adapted to life in the water.
They have streamlined bodies, dense fur that keeps them warm, and webbed feet that help them swim swiftly.
Males have venomous spurs
Male platypuses have venomous spurs on their hind legs.
They use them during fights with other males and for defense against predators.
The venom is not lethal to humans, but it can cause severe pain.
Previously, we talked about wolves.
