Where to see platypus in Tasmania

Tasmania offers several excellent locations for spotting platypus in the wild. Here are some top spots:

Top platypus spots in Burnie:

  • Fernglade Reserve – A serene riverside trail with high chances of spotting platypus, especially early morning or late afternoon.

  • Upper Natone Forest Reserve – Quiet forest setting with streams and suitable platypus habitat.

  • Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden – Spot platypus near the lake while exploring stunning themed gardens.

 

Where can I see platypus elsewhere in Tasmania?

North West

  • Warrawee Reserve (Latrobe) – Just 5 minutes from town, with marked platypus trails.

  • Mersey River, Latrobe – ‘Platypus Pool’ near old Deloraine Road junction. Tours via Australian Axeman’s Hall of Fame.

  • Meander River, Deloraine – Riverbank reserve, footbridge, or jetty near the caravan park.

  • Waratah Lake – Southern shore, away from the main street.

  • Stanley – Join a twilight platypus tour with Wilderness Tasmania Tours.

  • Sassafras Creek, Mole Creek – Downstream from Union Bridge.

  • Tasmanian Arboretum, Eugenana – 12 km south of Devonport, excellent viewing near Founder’s Lake.

  • Strahan – Botanical Creek on the way to Hogarth Falls.

  • Taylor’s Flats, Loongana – Picnic area and river trails along the River Leven.

 

Central Highlands

  • Little Pine Lagoon – Remote and peaceful, ideal for wildlife spotting.

  • Cradle Mountain – Best viewed at Ronny Creek; occasional sightings at Dove Lake.

  • Platypus Bay, Lake St Clair – 1.5 km walk to a lookout hide, past Watersmeet Bridge.

 

North

  • Taylor’s Flats Picnic Area, Loongana – Good viewing along the River Leven.

  • Northeast Park, Scottsdale – Well-maintained public park with platypus habitat.

  • Platypus House, Beauty Point – Guaranteed sightings via guided tour.

  • Meander Riverbank Reserve, Deloraine – As above; popular viewing site.

 

South

  • Tyenna River (Westerway) – Great natural habitat; try a tour near the Possum Shed Café.

  • Salmon Ponds, Plenty – Historic hatchery grounds with a platypus-friendly environment.

  • Heritage Park, Geeveston – ‘Platypus Walk’ with a viewing platform (Kermandie River).

  • Snug Falls – Look for platypus in Snug River during your walk.

  • Huon Valley Caravan Park – Scenic and family-friendly with known sightings.

  • Tynwald Park, New Norfolk – Riverside walks with potential sightings.

 

 

Related Information

 

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