Something has been quietly moving beneath the surface of Stockyard Creek in Russo Environmental Park and Bundaberg Regional Council now has confirmation of exactly what it is.
After careful investigations of the area near Childers, a group of yourtown trainees have recorded the first confirmed sighting of a platypus.
The discovery is a significant win for Council’s Natural Areas Team, which had identified the creek as suitable platypus habitat and previously surveyed the area without success.
The breakthrough came during recent surveys by yourtown trainees, who are working alongside Council while completing their Certificate in Conservation and Ecosystems Management.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the discovery was a fantastic reward for the trainees’ efforts and an encouraging sign for the park’s natural environment.
“Platypus are famously elusive, so confirming their presence in Stockyard Creek at Russo Environmental Park is a really exciting result,” she said.
“It also gives us another reason to remind everyone that these areas are home to significant native species and that the way we use our parks can make a real difference to their safety.”
A Bundaberg native worth protecting
Platypus are semi-aquatic mammals, spending much of their time in and around freshwater creeks and rivers.
They are also notoriously difficult to spot, being most active around dawn, dusk and overnight and spending considerable time underwater.
Platypus rely on healthy waterways and suitable creekside habitat for food, shelter and breeding.
Their presence can therefore provide an exciting insight into the health and suitability of a local waterway.
The latest sighting is a reminder that some of the region’s most remarkable wildlife may be living much closer than people realise.
“The best thing people can do when visiting platypus habitat is give these animals plenty of space,” Mayor Blackburn
“We’re asking park users to follow the rules and help us keep these waterways safe for wildlife.
“That means keeping dogs on a leash and out of the water and not swimming or entering the creek.
“Fishing is also not permitted.”
“These simple actions can help reduce disturbance and allow our native wildlife to go about their lives undisturbed.”
Spotted a platypus? Tell the experts
Platypus sightings are valuable because the species can be difficult to monitor.
Anyone who spots a platypus in the Bundaberg Region is encouraged to record the sighting through the Australian Conservation Foundation’s Platy-project here.
