Platypus are monotremes [egg laying mammals]. After mating, eggs are incubated between the belly and the tail and hatch after 10 to 12 days . The young will then suckle until they are weaned at four to five months old.

Montremes have a lower body temperature than other mammals.

Platypus are capable of a soft growling noise if disturbed or threatened.

Platypus have a dense waterproof coat and an underfur for insulation. Their paws are webbed for swimming and treading water, however the web on the forepaw folds back to enable the platypus to walk or burrow.

The male has a spur located behind the hind foot and is connected to a poison gland. The spur is used to wound enemies and other males, during mating season.

Platypus use their electro-sensitive bill to locate and probe for food including worms, insects, crustaceans and tadpoles. Their prey is carried to the surface in cheek pouches to be eaten. Adults have no teeth, instead small, horny pads to hold and crush prey.