WIRES supports Platypus Research Facility

Opened in 2024, Platypus Rescue HQ is the largest purpose-built platypus conservation centre in the world, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, research, and conservation of this unique native species.

Capable of housing up to 65 injured or displaced platypuses, the state-of-the-art facility supports critical research into platypus health and breeding, delivered in partnership with the University of NSW’s Centre for Ecosystem Science, thanks to support from San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and WIRES. This research will help inform long-term conservation strategies, including the creation of insurance populations for future reintroductions.

WIRES contributed over $1 million in operational funding to bring this groundbreaking project to life, helping to secure a future for one of Australia’s most iconic and vulnerable species. 

To learn more about this critical work, we spoke with Platypus Keeper Tyler, who gave us an insider’s look at what it takes to care for such a unique animal — and why this project matters now more than ever.

Meet Tyler – Platypus Keeper and Wildlife Advocate

Platypus Rescue HQ is home to five platypuses, including Mackenzie, a Zoo-born ambassador animal, and four wild individuals that are part of the research program.

Tyler’s day-to-day responsibilities are varied and hands-on: “I manage everything from feeding and cleaning to behavioural monitoring and habitat maintenance. I also track social interactions and activity patterns—especially during breeding season—to support research into platypus behaviour and welfare. It’s an incredibly rewarding job.”

Tyler’s passion for wildlife began in childhood: “I’ve had a passion for wildlife for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the bush with my dad, where I developed a deep appreciation for nature and the incredible animals that call Australia home.

“Working with the platypus — a rare and iconic species found nowhere else in the world — and being part of a project that seeks to deepen our understanding while also promoting their conservation has been truly inspiring. I also love helping people connect with the unique wildlife we’re so fortunate to have in Australia.”

The Platypus: A One-of-a-Kind Species

So, what makes the platypus so special?

For starters, they’re one of only five monotreme species — egg-laying mammals — which already places them in rare company. “They lay eggs, produce milk without teats, and have electro-sensitive bills that can detect prey underwater. It’s a strange mix of mammal, bird, and reptile traits,” Tyler says.

Female platypuses lay 1-3 leathery eggs and incubate them in their burrows. Once hatched, the ‘puggles’ remain in the burrow for 110 days for further development. During that time, the mother produces milk which seep through pores in her skin on her stomach. The puggles lap it up from grooves on her belly.

They are solitary and nocturnal, living in freshwater rivers or creeks and burrows along the banks. Platypuses forage underwater by closing their eyes, ears, and nostrils, using up to 40,000 electroreceptors in their bills to locate prey like insect larvae, worms, and freshwater crustaceans.

“Their foraging technique is amazing. They scoop up food and stones, store it in cheek pouches, and grind it later using the stones. Also, the males are venomous—they have spurs on their hind legs, which they use to fight other males for territory, especially during breeding season. There really is no other animal like them.”

Why Are Platypuses at Risk?

Despite their long evolutionary history, platypuses are now facing a very uncertain future.

Habitat destruction, introduced predators like foxes, dogs and cats, illegal yabby traps, and worsening climate events are all major threats. Urban expansion and land clearing damage rivers and remove vegetation needed for burrows. Meanwhile, drought, fire, and flood are disrupting entire ecosystems.

These environmental stressors make it difficult for platypus populations to thrive, especially in areas where natural habitats are already under strain. With hotter temperatures, longer droughts and more frequent bushfires, platypus habitat is become more unstable. Drying rivers leave platypus stranded without food, and bushfires impact water quality. Climate modelling predicts significant population declines in platypus populations over the next 50 years because of a changing climate.

“Only 21 platypuses have ever been bred in captivity worldwide,” says Tyler. “Our hope is that by studying them closely in this environment, we’ll unlock new knowledge that can inform future breeding and recovery programs.

“Visitors can also see our resident ambassador platypus Mackenzie and learn about conservation in action. Educating the public is a critical step in protecting this unique species from threats like climate change and habitat loss.”

How does your work here contribute to the survival of the species in the wild?

Daily monitoring of animal health, behaviour and habitat conditions is critical for preparing rescued platypuses for re-release and for gathering the data needed to inform wild conservation strategies.

I also work closely with scientists and vets to support research into breeding, climate resilience, and disease prevention.

What a Day in the Life Looks Like

Tyler’s typical day starts with maintaining optimal water quality across multiple pools—checking pH levels, filtration, and oxygenation. “Maintaining pristine water quality is critical—it has to be cool, clean, well-oxygenated, and constantly flowing to mimic natural creek systems.”

Then comes reviewing overnight footage to monitor behaviour. “Unlike most keeping roles, mine is very hands off. Since they’re nocturnal, we rely on CCTV to see when they wake, interact, and feed. This gives us crucial insights into their health and social dynamics.”

Feeding is also a science. Platypuses require a high-protein, live diet, which includes yabbies, worms, and insect larvae. “We breed our own food here at the zoo. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. Each platypus has a personalised diet, and we scatter their food to encourage natural foraging. Everything we do is guided by a focus on welfare, enrichment, and understanding more about this elusive species.”

Engaging with the public is another crucial part of the role. “I talk to visitors about the importance and protection strategies for this unique species,” she says. “Ultimately, our work here strengthens the safety net for wild platypus populations facing increasing threats.”

Personalities Beneath the Surface

Even though platypuses are elusive, they each have distinct personalities.

“Our wild individuals were shy at first, but they’re becoming more active and confident,” Tyler notes. “Mackenzie, our ambassador, is a standout. He was born in human care and is very curious and comfortable with his environment. He’ll often be active during the day and even save his favourite food for later!”

Understanding these behavioural patterns helps staff tailor care, enrichment, and feeding schedules to each animal’s unique preferences.

A Vision for the Future

“I want to see stable, healthy and connected platypus populations that can thrive despite climate challenges. That means protecting rivers, restoring habitats, and continuing this vital research.”

She encourages everyday Australians to get involved: “Every action counts—reduce chemical run-off, avoid single-use plastics, support habitat restoration. And talk about the platypus. The more people who care, the stronger the movement to protect them.”

A Call to Action

The platypus has survived for millions of years, but today, its fate depends on what we do next.

Thanks to the efforts of zookeepers like Tyler, and the cutting-edge work being done at Platypus Rescue HQ, there’s renewed hope for the species. But conservation doesn’t end at the zoo gates—it’s something we all have a role in.

As Tyler puts it: “If we work together, we can give future generations the chance to see a platypus in the wild, not just in a zoo.

“Platypus are living pieces of evolutionary history and are unique to our part of the world. It would be a tragedy to lose them. If we work together, we can protect their future.

“They’ve survived for millions of years; it’s our job to help them survive the next hundred!”

Images supplied by Taronga Western Plains Zoo and rick Stevens