Distribution, Captures And Physical Characteristics Of The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) In Tasmania.

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the geographic distribution, mean length and weight of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in Tasmania. The species was found to be common and widespread on the mainland of Tasmania and present on King Island. Mean total lengths of adult males and females were 57. 1±3.5 cm (n=44) and 47.9±2. 1 cm (n=29) respectively. Mean weights of adult males and females were 23 13±37 1 g (n=42) and 1337±206 g (n=29) respectively. Tasmanian platypuses were generally larger than those from the mainland.