The platypus (Ornithorhynchus
anatinus) is considered to be one of the world's
most unusual animals. It is often described as a living fossil - a furry,
warm-blooded, egg-laying mammal which retains some features of reptiles.
In this section you can learn more about this very special Australian mammal.
Discovery & Naming will explain some of the historical
background and all about platypus scientific and common names. The sub-section
Distribution & Status outlines
where in Australia the platypus is found.
