Saving the Platypus: Community Science in the Upper Murray
Khancoban Landcare Group worked with scientists and the community to monitor platypus in the Swampy Plains River using eDNA and local knowledge.
Capacity building - LEP_23-020_LLC10
The issue
The platypus is one of Australia’s most iconic and mysterious native species, yet populations across eastern Australia are increasingly under pressure from habitat loss, drought, declining water quality and river modification.
In the Upper Murray, locals often spoke of platypus sightings in the Swampy Plains River near Khancoban, but there had been little formal monitoring to confirm their presence. Without reliable information it is difficult to protect this unique species. Khancoban Landcare Group saw an opportunity to bring together local knowledge, community curiosity and modern science to uncover the truth about platypus in their river.
The solution
Khancoban Landcare launched Project Platypus, bringing scientists, volunteers and the local community together to discover whether platypus were still thriving in the Swampy Plains River.
Using environmental DNA (eDNA), an innovative method that detects species from traces of DNA in water, community volunteers joined researchers to collect river samples and become citizen scientists.
The project also hosted a lively Platypus Night, where locals learned about platypus behaviour and river health. By combining science, community events and storytelling, the project generated valuable data while building local pride and a stronger commitment to protecting this remarkable species.
The impact
eDNA testing confirmed platypus in the Swampy Plains River, providing important baseline data for the Upper Murray.
More than 40 community members joined monitoring activities and the Platypus Night event, building awareness of platypus conservation and river health. Project Platypus strengthened partnerships between Landcare, scientists and local organisations while showcasing the power of community-led citizen science.
Most importantly, the project sparked a renewed connection between the community and their river, inspiring local enthusiasm and momentum to protect platypus habitat and support healthier waterways in their own backyard.
eDNA Monitoring Results
Platypus DNA was detected at most sampling sites, confirming the species is actively using the Swampy Plains River system.
Key facts
- eDNA monitoring confirmed platypus presence in the Swampy Plains River
- • Community Platypus Night event held in Khancoban
- • Partnerships formed between Landcare, scientists and local stakeholders
- • Project delivered by Khancoban Landcare Group with Landcare support