Young platypus rescued on Marlo beach
9 February, 2012
Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) Biodiversity staff were alerted to the plight of an exhausted young platypus found on the beach near the Marlo Estuary in East Gippsland on Wednesday February 1.
Rangers from Parks Victoria in Orbost responded immediately, and promptly transported the animal from Marlo directly to the Bairnsdale Main Street Veterinary Clinic for assessment.
Biologists from the Australian Platypus Conservancy were also notified and met the rangers on site.
DSE Biodiversity Officer, Faye Bedford said veterinary staff at Healesville Sanctuary were also contacted to let them know that they may receive a platypus in the next few hours.
“We always let other facilities know as soon as possible so they are well prepared and ready to take the animal in for immediate treatment if necessary,” Ms Bedford said.
“The platypus turned out to be a young juvenile male, skinny and underweight. This little guy should have been living in his natural burrow, suckling milk from his mother.”
“The reasons for him being found in the Marlo estuary are unclear but it’s possible he’s an orphan due to the death of his mother, and hunger or curiosity drove him out of his burrow.”
Dr Melody Serena from the Australian Platypus Conservancy and vet Jason Wong checked the platypus for injuries and decided due to his age and his underweight status it would be best for him to be taken directly to Healesville Sanctuary for specialised care.
“Due to his poor condition, he would not have survived another couple of days without food or care, so he’ll stay at Healesville for three to four weeks until his overall body condition improves,” Ms Bedford said.
“If he survives and puts on weight he’ll be taken from the Sanctuary and released back into the wild at a pre-determined site assessed as suitable by biologists from the Platypus Conservancy.”
Reports so far indicate that the little platypus is eating well on his own and snoozing comfortably in his man-made burrow. He has already gained 40 grams since his arrival.
Ms Bedford thanked everyone involved in the rescue and subsequent care of the platypus and hopes he will thrive at Healesville and be able to be returned to his natural home in the wild.
If you wish to report of a sighting of a Platypus please contact the Australian Platypus Conservancy on 5157 5568. Alternatively you can email the Conservancy at platypus.apc@westnet.com.au
