Protect The Platypus
Will you protect the Platypus? Donate now to save one of Australia's most iconic animals.
Over the last 200 years, Australia has lost approximately 40% of Its Platypus populations. The research shows that if we don’t act now, Platypus populations are expected to decline by at least 50% in our lifetime.
A number of factors including extreme weather events such as bushfires, droughts and floods, means that they are continuing to disappear, with fewer and fewer sighted every year.
Once, they were found in abundance in our rivers and creeks. Today their survival is at risk.
Please make an urgent donation
How you can help
$80
Rehabilitation
Fund medical resources needed to rescue and treat sick or injured Platypus at the Taronga Wildlife Hospitals in Sydney and Dubbo.
$125
Release
Help safely release rescued Platypus back into the wild, to their old waterhole, or an even safer, healthier habitat.
$250
Research
Drive more research to understand what Platypus need to thrive and to develop a sustainable breed-for-release program.
We need to act now...
A recent study from our partners at the University
of New South Wales shows that Platypus populations are predicted to decline by at least 50% over the next 50 years.
This comes after decades of declining numbers, due firstly to hunting in the 1800s and 1900s, followed by severe storms, bushfires, floods, and drought. And in more recent times, the devastating Black Summer Bushfires of 2019/20.
We need to act now to ensure the survival of this iconic Australian species.
"I’ve seen recent data that shows that it would only take three severe weather events across five years before populations of Platypus become extinct. Modelling already shows that extreme events like fire, flood and drought are going to increase in frequency."
Dr Phoebe Meagher
Wildlife Conservation Officer
The Platypus needs your support now more than ever
Give now to support the rescue, rehabilitation and release of this iconic Aussie animal.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or need to speak to one of our friendly supporter care team, please email us at supporter@taronga.org.au or call 1300 369 116.
