Male platypuses are one of the few mammals that are venomous. They have spurs on their hind limbs that are connected to venom producing glands. Although the poison isn't strong enough to kill humans, it can still be incapacitating.
2. Platypuses Lay Eggs!
A mammal that lays eggs? That's right! Platypuses and echidnas are the only mammals that lay eggs. Females seal themselves inside a burrow and then lay 1 to 3 leathery eggs in a burrow. The eggs hatch in about 10 days.
3. Platypuses Use Electrolocation
Platypuses close their eyes and nose when they dive. In order to locate their prey, they have sensitive electroreceptors on their bills. They detect the electric fields generated by their prey.
4. Platypuses Look Like a Combination Animal
Platypuses have flat paddle tails like a beaver, webbed feet and a bill like a duck, and a body with fur like an otter!
5. Platypuses Live in a Limited Habitat
Platypuses live only in the fresh water of Tasmania and Australia. But the terrain in which they live is varied. They can be found in mountains, tropical rainforests, and lowlands.