The platypus is one of Australia’s unique creatures. It is a shy mammal that is hard to see in the wild. To learn more about these strange animals, I created these fun, platypus life cycle cards.
- white paper and printer
- scissors
- laminator
- colouring pencils
About the Platypus
When the platypus was first discovered, drawings and live specimens were sent back to Europe for study. Many British scientists believed the animal was a joke.
But the platypus is real. It is a unique semi-aquatic mammal found only in eastern Australian un the states of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania. This animal has a duck-bill, a beaver-like tail, otter-like fur, webbed feet and it lays eggs. Australia has two mammals that are classed as monotremes, one of which is the platypus, the other being the echidna.
This nocturnal animals who sleep for up to 14 hours a day, can live for more than 12 years in the wild. They are also excellent swimmers who close their eyes and ears when under water. They use their sense of electroreception to dig up muddy river beds with their bill to find food. They use the pouches in their cheeks to carry their prey to the surface of the water where they then proceed to eat it.
On the ankle of the male, is a spur that contains venom that is powerful enough to kill small animals. It is not lethal to humans, though it will cause a severe pain that lasts a few weeks.
Your kids will love learning more about the life cycle of these creatures with this printable pack. It is aimed at children ages 2 – 8.
To grab your copy of these Platypus Life Cycle Cards, sign up below:
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