PLATYPUS FOCUSED: Researchers keen to know about encounters on Mossman River
CAN YOU HELP?
A determined group of researchers will role out a key project next month aimed at identifying the locations and sites of one the most shy creatures in our local Douglas Shire waterways – the mysterious platypus.
The Australian Conversation Foundation (AFC) has called upon the help of Douglas Shire residents to help them find and let them know, if they spot or have any platypus encounters anywhere along the Mossman river as part of their national wide Platy-project.
The ACF says the last confirmed viewing of a platypus in the Mossman river was back in 2020 and they’re eager to see if they remain in this specific waterway.
We know there are platypus in and around the Mossman River,” a researcher told Newsport.
“But, there isn’t a lot of data about which specific waterways platypus live in, in the Far North, including Mossman, where populations might (potentially) be in decline, or even if there have been local extinctions.
“The last recorded platypus sighting on the Mossman River was back in 2020.
“Having up to date data about recent sightings helps us collate accurate data about their individual thereabouts in different parts of the country, which in the longer term will help us play a role in preserving their habitats and overall numbers for years to come.”
Can you help? Have you recently observed any platypus in the Mossman River?
Those that do know the locations of Douglas Shire platypus, particularly in and around the Mossman river are invited and encouraged to email platypus@acf.org.au with any further information.