It’s August, which in the ACT means it’s officially Platypus Month, an opportunity for volunteers and citizen scientists to help track and report sightings of these unique animals across the Territory and surrounding region.

Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water Suzanne Orr said the month provides valuable insights into local platypus populations.

“Now in its 12th year, Waterwatch will be conducting 34 group surveys throughout August with the support of volunteers to compile critical data on the species,” Minister Orr said.

“Reporting platypus sightings helps our ecologists determine where they live and travel through the ACT and understand how their habitats and populations might be affected by external conditions such as rainfall or dry periods.

“Waterwatch will also be collecting data on native rakali during this time to gain insights into the locations and behaviours of both species.

“It might still be cold, but late winter is the best time of year to spot one of these elusive creatures in our waterways. In addition to the group surveys, Waterwatch will hold three free guided walks along the Queanbeyan River and one at Tidbinbilla for a chance to see one.”

“If you get the chance, I highly encourage you to head out to our waterways and look for a platypus or rakali. It’s a really special experience to see one in the wild,” Minister Orr said.

Waterwatch is funded by the ACT Government and Icon Water.

If you see a platypus or rakali at any time, note the date, time, location and number observed, and report the sighting through the Platty and Ratty Portal. Include photos if possible.

Learn more about Platypus Month on the Waterwatch website.

Quotes attributable to Regional Waterwatch Facilitator, Daniel Harris-Pascal:

“Platypus, known as ‘Mulanggang’ in Ngunnawal language, are iconic creatures. Their presence signifies healthy landscapes and waterways. Citizen-scientists in the Upper Murrumbidgee have monitored Platypus and Rakali for over a decade, providing valuable data on their distribution and habitat preferences. The Platty and Ratty portal on the Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch website tracks sightings and can be used to log sightings at any time of year.

“Our dataset so far shows that our Platypus populations have remained relatively stable over the last 10 years. It is important that we continue to monitor the populations to ensure they are not impacted by climate change or our growing city.

“If you’d like to learn more, check out our platypus video on the Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch Website. If you’d like to learn how to spot them, come along to one of our Platypus Walks and if you’re interested in getting more involved, come along to one of our surveys. Together we can ensure that the flora and fauna we love, continue to be a part of the Bush Capital.”

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