The Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), or Duck-Billed Platypus, is a small Oceanian mammal. It is an adoptable animal in Zoo Tycoon (Xbox)
Description[]
Distinctive due to its unusual appearance, the platypus is one of only five extant species of monotreme, the only mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young. It is a small animal, only reaching 50cm (20in) in length, with males being larger than females. Its long streamlined otter-like body, webbed feet and beaver-like tail are adaptations for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. The platypus' most distinctive feature is its long snout, which resembles the bill of a duck. It also possesses large spurs on their ankles, which in males are venomous.
The platypus is native to eastern Australia and Tasmania, inhabiting streams and rivers across a variety of habitats. It is one of the few mammals able to detect natural electrical stimulation, using special receptors on its bill to detect invertebrate prey. The bill is also sensitive to touch and the platypus relies solely on it to find food as it closes its eyes, ears and nostrils when diving. Females will lay up to three eggs and raise them in a burrow, feeding her young on milk secreted through pores in her skin. Habitat destruction and fungal diseases are some of the platypus' greatest threats.
Zoo Tycoon (Xbox)[]
The platypus is an adoptable animal in Zoo Tycoon: Ultimate Animal Collection, the updated version of Zoo Tycoon (Xbox). It is available for adoption when a zoo reaches a Fame rating of 38, making it one of the last animals that can be acquired.
The platypus is a mini-exhibit animal and lives in the Arid Pool mini-exhibit.
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