26 September 2023

Rangers to rescue for platypus

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Queensland rangers are caring for a young platypus after it was found severely dehydrated and covered with ticks under a house in the Gold Coast hinterland.

Given the name of Jarrah, the platypus was taken to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital where he underwent treatment to remove the ticks.

Jarrah was then placed in the care of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services’ Gateway Visitor Centre rangers.

He is currently in a customised platypus enclosure where rangers are feeding him a variety of native diet that mimics his natural food.

Ranger in Charge, Jason Flesser (pictured, with Jarrah) said it was important to monitor Jarrah’s progress as he recovered.

“Rangers, in close consultation with their vet, are closely monitoring Jarrah to ensure he has the best chance of returning to the wild,” Mr Flesser said.

“Thankfully, he’s been doing exceedingly well,” he said.

Mr Flesser said Jarrah may have been looking for a new burrow when he “ran into a little trouble”.

“Thankfully, with the help of our team here at the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, Jarrah will have a better shot at his next burrow-hunting mission,” he said.

He said the Department of Environment and Science (DES) had a network of wildlife officers and rangers who regularly observed platypus in the wild, particularly around areas such as Eungella National Park west of Mackay.

Mr Flesser said it was a rare sight to see a young platypus up close.

“Platypus are elusive but, if you’re lucky, you might see one at Girraween National Park in South Queensland, or Eungella National Park and Carnarvon National Park in Central Queensland,” he said.

He advised people not to disturb platypus living in streams on properties or in the neighbourhood.

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