Share in the secret world of platypus

LOCAL residents are being encouraged to learn more about the platypus to better protect the species.
A platypus information session will be held next week and Member for Bass Ken Smith said locals should attend.
“Efforts by Melbourne Water and the many community groups they work with to improve platypus habitat in the south east are helping to encourage platypus breeding,” Mr Smith said.
“However, there is still an opportunity for the public to further understand how their actions directly impact platypus,” he said.
“This session is a great opportunity for local residents to learn more about platypus in their area and get actively involved in platypus conservation.”
Mr Smith said although the recent Melbourne Water Urban Platypus Program showed the number of juvenile platypus seen across Melbourne has more than doubled, the iconic animal was still under threat from illegal fishing and rubbish dumping.
The information session will inform the public of recent survey results and the role they can play in improving platypus populations and river health.
A wildlife ecology consultant for research organisation ‘cesar’ (The Centre for Environmental Stress and Adaptation Research), Josh Griffiths, said over the past 10 years platypus populations have been under threat from drought, increased urbanisation and litter, making them particularly vulnerable.
“While we are seeing evidence of platypus breeding, it’s vitally important the public remember they are extremely vulnerable to litter, storm water run-off and removal of vegetation,” Mr Griffiths said.
The Melbourne Water urban platypus program surveys platypus populations twice a year to establish the overall health of the waterways and guide the management of rivers and creeks.
The information session will be held from 7pm on Thursday 30 May in the Gallery room of the Cardinia Cultural Centre Pakenham.
To RSVP call 131 722 or email enquiry@melbournewater.com.au