The Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a semi-aquatic mammal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania.
Together with the four species of echidna, it is one of the five extant
species of monotremes, the only mammals that lay eggs instead of giving
birth to live young.
It is the sole living representative of its family (Ornithorhynchidae)
and genus (Ornithorhynchus), though a number of related species have
been found in the fossil record.

The bizarre appearance of this egg-laying, duck-billed mammal baffled
naturalists when it was first discovered, with some considering it an
elaborate fraud.
It is one of the few venomous mammals; the male Platypus has a spur on
the hind foot which delivers a poison capable of causing severe pain to
humans.
The unique features of the Platypus make it an important subject in the
study of evolutionary biology and a recognizable and iconic symbol of
Australia; it has appeared as a mascot at national events and is
featured on the reverse of the Australian 20 cent coin.

Until the early 20th century it was hunted for its fur, but it is now protected throughout its range.
Although captive breeding programs have had only limited success and
the Platypus is vulnerable to the effects of pollution, it is not under
any immediate threat

تم النشر بقلم :محمـود21/01/13, 03:10 am