Platypus priorities in creek systems
Responsible fishing habits and suitable habitat are essential for Platypus survival.
Collaborations - LP011-027
The issue
The Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council Inc (YACTAC) carried out an eDNA survey of the Yanco Creek system in 2021 which uncovered a number of platypus. Many of the landholders in the area were unaware of the number of platypus living in the major creeks of the system, including Yanco, Colombo and Billabong Creeks. So, it was decided to organise a public workshop to release the results of the survey findings to both the landholders and interested members of the public to gauge interest in this iconic species. A number of platypus specialists who understood the best management practices of platypus populations were also engaged to present at the meeting.
The solution
YACTAC joined forces with Murrumbidgee Landcare to discuss and organise the meeting at Morundah. Three specialists in platypus habitat were engaged to participate. Geoff Williams from the Australian Platypus Conservancy gave insight on key findings from YACTAC's platypus report. Dr Joanne Connolly, Charles Sturt University, spoke about the platypus locally and what can be done to improve habitat. Kathie Le Busque, from ANU Sustainable Farms spoke about enhancing farm dams for best environmental and agricultural outcomes. A field walk was arranged to see firsthand the characteristics of suitable platypus habitat and to learn methods of Platypus spotting in the wild.
The impact
Forty-three participants enjoyed the workshop allowing for plenty of questions to help understand the local population and habitat requirements of platypus. The farm we visited for ‘Platypus Spotting’ practices holistic farming methods, which complement the needs of the platypus. Good quality creek water was found to be present, as tested by Kathie using the macroinvertebrate identification chart system. Native grasses and low stocking rates reduce sediment into the creek system, maintaining good water quality. Trees, shrubs and grasses lined the banks providing messy roots and fallen logs which help protect the Platypus and provide habitat and food sources suitable for an animal with no teeth.
Learnings
How research findings can be used to engage the community into existing projects, to develop an interest in Citizen Science and the protection of endangered species and their habitat.
Key facts
- Responsible fishing habits and suitable habitat are essential for Platypus survival.
- Australian Platypus Monitoring Network (APMN) could be used locally to monitor Platypus.