Have you ever seen a platypus in the wild?
Take part in the platy-project month of action this September!
We are hosting a community platypus survey event and we’d love for you to join us. Team up with Council experts as we explore Ourimbah Creek by Kayak. You’ll become a citizen scientist, have an incredible time getting out into nature and hopefully experience the magical moment of spotting a platypus! Get in quickly because spots are limited!
This September, we’re trying to get as many people as possible across the Central Coast to head down to your local creek or river, find a quiet place on the bank, try to spot a platypus and record what you see, or don’t see!
It’s all part of the Platy-Project - a citizen-science project that aims to fill the gaps in our understanding of where this elusive animal lives, so that we can better protect it.
Even though the platypus is one of our most unique and iconic animals, there are big gaps in our knowledge about the creature, including where it lives and how big platypus populations are. With platypus numbers declining, the lack of existing platypus data is a huge barrier to getting the protection it needs from extinction.
By recording where platypuses live, we can help researchers understand more about this incredible creature, its habitat, and help prevent further declines in their numbers.
Participating in the Platy-Project not only supports the platypus, it's also a great way to get outside, slow down and connect with nature. The Australian Conservation Foundation have launched an interactive platy-project map which shows where the best places near you are to try and spot a platypus, and lets you record your platypus sightings (if you’re lucky enough to see one) or your attempted sightings.
* All equipment provided. Minimum age is 8 years old. All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Meeting point given on booking confirmation.
