Key Points
- The male platypus has a hollow spur on each hind leg that is connected to a gland that secretes venom.
- They have two layers of fur for insulation and waterproofing.
- When put under UV lights, they give off a biofluorescent green-blue glow.
Welcome to the Platypus Quiz, where you can test your knowledge and learn more about one of the fewest venomous mammals in the world! They are known for their unusual appearance that seems to be put together from other animals – a long duck bill, a beaver-like tail, and feet that resemble an otter – but this egg-laying mammal with a multitude of characteristics is definitely in a class all its own.
Take the quiz to test your knowledge of Platypus if you believe you know everything there is to know about them or if you simply want to learn more about these intriguing animals!
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What is the scientific name for the platypus?
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What type of animal is a platypus?
Peter Scheunis / Creative Commons
Where are platypuses found?
Ester Inbar – Public Domain
What is the average size of a platypus?
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What is the average weight of a platypus?
History Of The Platypus
This evolutionary wonder, of which there is only one species, is considered to be one of the world’s most evolutionary distinct mammals. Not only are they only one of five extant species of mammals that lay eggs, but they are also one of the few mammals that are venomous. The male of the species is equipped with sharp stingers on the heels of its hind feet and is able to deliver a strong toxic blow to any approaching enemy.
Endemic to eastern mainland Australia, Tasmania, and King Island, it is believed that the platypus first evolved in the early Cretaceous Period when Australia was still connected to South America via Antarctica forming the supercontinent known as Gondwana. They most likely evolved from a group of animals called monotremes.
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What is the platypus’ unique feature?
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What is the purpose of the platypus’ bill?
Klaus / Flickr
What type of prey do platypuses eat?
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How do platypuses find their prey?
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What is electroreception?
Interesting Facts
This mammal is considered an important gem for many reasons. Not only are they one of the last known egg-laying mammals on Earth, but they have many properties that are or may be, beneficial to humans. Their milk was discovered to have a potent protein that can be used for life-saving antibiotics and there is a potential aid for diabetes in its venom, which contains a metabolic hormone that stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin and lower blood glucose levels. Read on to discover more interesting facts.
- When British scientists first discovered them in 1798, they thought they were a hoax created by putting parts of different animals together.
- Scientists believe that these animals are the earliest relatives of the modern mammal.
- They do not have teeth so they can’t bite.
- They don’t have teats but rather feed their young by sweating out their milk, which is concentrated in their bellies.
- They have eyes above their bill so they are not able to see things directly below them.
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What is the platypus’ habitat?
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What is the platypus’ lifespan in the wild?
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What is the platypus’ lifespan in captivity?
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What is the platypus’ reproductive strategy?
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How many eggs does a female platypus lay at a time?
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What is unique about platypus eggs?
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