ACT Waterwatch has declared August Platypus Month and is looking for spotters to help count the creatures in the ACT and nearby.
Funded by the ACT Government and Icon Water, Waterwatch conducts the survey annually to provide an understanding of platypus numbers in rivers and creeks in Canberra and the surrounding region.
Regional Facilitator with Waterwatch, Woo O’Reilly said late winter was the ideal time for spotting platypus as they spent more time feeding and the males were out and about preparing for the breeding season.
“The annual survey gives us an understanding of platypus numbers in rivers and creeks in Canberra and the surrounding region,” Ms O’Reilly said.
“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,” she said.
“There will be 22 surveys that will take place at various locations across the region including Jerrabomberra Wetlands, the Molonglo River near Coppins Crossing and on the Murrumbidgee River at Point Hut Crossing.”
She said the one-hour surveys would take place in the morning and the afternoon.
“Anyone can help with the surveys, no prior experience is necessary.
“Warm clothes, binoculars and a watch or phone are all that volunteers are required to bring on the day. Around eight volunteers are needed per survey.”
Ms O’Reilly said the platypus was a shy animal, often thought to live only in remote areas.
“In reality though, they can be found in many rivers and creeks in the region. They have even been spotted in Lake Burley Griffin,” she said.
More information about survey times and other monitoring programs the Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch conducts can be found on its website at this PS News link.
