The platypus is an iconic species within Ipswich and measures are being taken to conserve this important native animal.
The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a unique, egg-laying mammal that causes significant local and international curiosity.
Council has identified the platypus as an iconic species.
A database of sightings and eDNA recordings that helps understand the species within the Ipswich local government area (LGA) has been created in a partnership between council and the Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland.
Platypus conservation in Queensland is becoming increasingly important following a noticeable decrease in recorded sightings in recent years.
Council has a Platypus Recovery Plan to ensure the long-term conservation of the species in the LGA and surrounding catchments.
The Platypus Recovery Plan objectives include:
Council and Wildlife Queensland have monitored platypus populations within the Ipswich LGA between 2015 and 2024. Through this work council is aware of several known locations of platypus within and adjacent to the Ipswich LGA.
These include:
Council has some evidence of platypus in several other catchments, but only has anecdotal records or limited eDNA records to support these reports. Without repeated eDNA records or evidence of a sighting, it is difficult to fully determine platypus presence.
This is the case for both Bundamba Creek and Six Mile Creek where both have previous anecdotal records from community members as well as an eDNA record at one or more sites. More surveys are required to confirm the presence of platypus in these catchments.
Platypus are an apex predator in their food chain and integral to the biodiversity of many Australian freshwater ecosystems. They have exceptional cultural and evolutionary significance given their unique anatomy and life history. This combination makes platypus an iconic species for promoting sustainable management of the waterways in Ipswich and surrounding areas.
Platypus are renowned across the world and in Ipswich they can be found in urban creek areas. However, their habitat is also fragile, prone to many threats and changes and considerable effort is needed to identify and conserve platypus in these environments.
Platypus are rarely successfully bred in captivity meaning that the conservation of wild populations in existing areas is of critical importance.
Key habitat requirements
Platypus occupy a diverse range of freshwater habitats from shallow, still waters such as lakes through to flowing systems such as creeks and rivers.
There are three main requirements for platypus habitat:
Current Threats
There are many ways we can all contribute to the conservation of platypus across Ipswich. Ways you can help include:
If you find a sick or injured Platypus
Pick up and hold a platypus safely by the tail to avoid the male's venomous spurs. Place it in a light cloth bag such as a pillowcase or a secure container, keep it cool and quiet and contact RSPCA Queensland on 1300 264 625.
Ipswich City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners, the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul people of the Yugara/Yagara Language Group, as custodians of the land and waters we share. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, as the keepers of the traditions, customs, cultures and stories of proud peoples.