Platypus FAQs
Q: What time of day is best for viewing platypus in Burnie?
A: Platypus are most active 30 minutes before sunset, when they emerge from their burrow, and first thing in the morning, when they head back in about 30 minutes after sunrise.
In winter and early spring they're more active during the day too, as the colder weather means they need more food so have to spend more time finding it.
Q: How do you see platypus?
A: All you have to do is keep your eyes on the water for any signs of activity, mostly ripples created by the swimming or feeding in the shallows.
Q: What should I bring with me when viewing platypus in Burnie?
A: You should bring comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, a camera, and insect repellent.
Q: Where is the best place to view platypus in Burnie, Tasmania?
A: Spotting platypus in the wild can be a bit unpredictable, as they are elusive, there are a number of rivers, creeks, dams and lakes where you are more likely to see platypus around Burnie especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
Fernglade Reserve is a nature reserve located about 3km from the city center. The Fernglade Platypus Trail follows the Emu riverbank, and along the way there are informative signs to inform you about the area's many unique features, including the platypus. Entry to Fernglade Reserve is free. The gates are closed to cars from sunset to sunlight so you may need to park and walk in outside of these times to view platypus.
Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens: is a stunning garden located 8km south of Burnie, off the Ridgley Highway, Platypus, echidna, and diverse bird life are routinely sighted.
Guide Falls Reserve: This nature reserve is located 25km south of Burnie and is another potential location for seeing platypus.
Upper Natone Forest Reserve: is approximately 30 kms from Burnie via Stowport and Natone, platypus are spotted in the lagoon from time to time.
Q: Can I swim or kayak in the same area as the platypus?
A: Although swimming and kayaking are permitted in Burnie Reserves, keep your distance and be very careful not to disturb their natural habitat, especially when you are getting into and out of the water, platypus nest in earth bank.
Q: What does a platypus look like?
A: The platypus has a duck-like bill, which is flat and wide, resembling a beak. Its bill is soft and sensitive, equipped with electroreceptors that help it detect prey underwater. The platypus has small, beady eyes and small ears located on the sides of its head. It has webbed feet with sharp claws that are ideal for digging burrows and navigating through water. One of its most distinctive features is its tail, which is broad and flattened, resembling that of a beaver. The platypus has a dark brown fur color on its back and a lighter shade on its belly
Q: Does a platypus lay eggs?
A: Yes, it is one of only two species of monotremes, or egg-laying mammals, in the world.
Q: Are there any guided tours available for viewing platypus in Burnie?
A: There are no official guided tours available, but some local tour operators offer platypus viewing experiences.
Friends of Fernglade http://friendsoffernglade.weebly.com/
A voluntary group assisting Burnie City Council and Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Service in the management of Fernglade Reserve, and its amazing wildlife.
Wild Platypus https://wild-platypus.weeblysite.com/
Wild Platypus conduct platypus and wildlife Ecotours for bespoke private tours, coach tours, and well developed and popular 'packages' to cruise ships, since 2004.
Related info:
https://www.bonorong.com.au/blog/best-places-to-see-platypus-in-tasmania