The Australian platypus is a unique mammal native to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. It is one of the few egg-laying mammals, known as a monotreme. The platypus has a distinctive appearance, featuring a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and a flat tail. It primarily inhabits freshwater rivers and streams, where it forages for insects and small aquatic animals. Platypuses are excellent swimmers, using their webbed feet to paddle through the water. They can close their eyes and ears while submerged, relying on their sensitive bill to detect prey through electroreception. This remarkable adaptation allows them to thrive in their aquatic environment.