Released 05/08/2020
August is Platypus Month and Waterwatch is once again looking for volunteer spotters to count these much-loved and iconic creatures.
Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman said the surveys inform land managers and researchers about the population status of these elusive native animals.
“The Platypus Month annual survey continues to grow in popularity every year. Last year over 170 volunteers participated in surveys at 22 sites across the region,” Minister Gentleman said.
“This year we’ve expanded the number of sites to 34 locations, including Jerrabomberra Wetlands, the Molonglo River near Coppins Crossing, and on the Murrumbidgee River at Point Hut Crossing.
“Everyone is welcome to help and there’s no prior experience required.
“The one-hour surveys take place in mornings and afternoons, so you don’t need to be an early riser to take part. Warm clothes, binoculars and a watch or phone is all that volunteers are required to bring on the day.
“August is Platypus Month because late winter is the ideal time for spotting platypus as they spend more time feeding and the males are out preparing for the breeding season.
"The ACT Government is committed to funding Waterwatch to help monitor and protect our waterways and native species.
“If you’re interested in helping out with the surveys, email waterwatch@act.gov.au.”
More information about survey times and Waterwatch survey is on their website: www.act.waterwatch.org.au.
Waterwatch is funded by ACT Government and Icon Water.
Quote attributable to Woo O’Reilly, Regional Waterwatch Facilitator
“These surveys give us an understanding of platypus numbers in rivers and creeks in Canberra and the surrounding region. It’s not the presence or absence of platypus we’re looking at, but rather the number of animals we find in a given stretch of river.
“We’ve been able to expand the number of survey sites this year to include more of these locations thanks to the large amount of volunteer support we continue to get from the community.
“For those who can’t make the surveys, but who would like to see a platypus, Waterwatch is also hosting a free walk from 7am to 8am on Sunday 9 August starting from the Isabella Street footbridge in Queanbeyan. No RSVP is necessary.
“If you spot a platypus outside of survey times, report the sighting to waterwatch@act.gov.au. Please include the time, date, location and any notes about behaviour and habitat.”
Images and footage of ACT platypus are available here.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases