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Description

The platypus. also known as the duck-billedplatypus, is a semiaquatic egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. Together with the four species of echidna, it is one of the five extant species of momotremes, the only mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth. The animal is the sole living representative of its family and genus, though a number of related species have been found in the fossil record.

Until the early 20th century, it was hunted for its fur, but it is now protected throughout its range. Although captive breeding programs have had only limited success and the platypus is vulnerable to the effects of pollution, it is not under any immediate threat.

Description

The platypus. also known as the duck-billedplatypus, is a semiaquatic egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. Together with the four species of echidna, it is one of the five extant species of momotremes, the only mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth. The animal is the sole living representative of its family and genus, though a number of related species have been found in the fossil record.

Until the early 20th century, it was hunted for its fur, but it is now protected throughout its range. Although captive breeding programs have had only limited success and the platypus is vulnerable to the effects of pollution, it is not under any immediate threat.