IF you’ve ever wanted to help spot platypus now is your perfect chance with volunteers required for a survey taking place next week at Jerrabomberra Wetlands.

“The survey is part of a project being undertaken this month by ACT Waterwatch to look at how this unique mammal is faring in rivers and creeks in the Canberra region,” said Woo O’Reilly, Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch Facilitator.

“We are looking for volunteers to join us at Jerrabomberra Wetlands from 7.30 am to 8.30 am on Tuesday 23 August to help us spot platypus.

“This survey follows one undertaken earlier this month at Jerrabomberra Wetlands and others being undertaken in the Cooma region.

“August is a prime time of the year for spotting platypus as they spend more time feeding and the males are out and about preparing for the breeding season.

“As the platypus is a shy animal it is often thought to only occur in more remote areas. In reality though platypus can be found in many rivers and creeks in the ACT region and has even been spotted in Lake Burley Griffin.

“No previous experience is necessary, just a sense of enthusiasm, warm clothes, binoculars and a watch or phone. RSVPs can be made via waterwatch@act.gov.au or 6207 2246.

“For those who can’t make the Jerrabomberra Wetlands survey, but who would like to see a platypus, Waterwatch is also hosting a free walk from 8 am to 9 am on Sunday 28 August starting from the Isabella Street footbridge in Queanbeyan. No RSVP is necessary.

“The fact the platypus is easily observed very close to Queanbeyan’s city centre illustrates people and platypus can live in close proximity. Indeed in our survey work last year we found two platypus living in a rundown creek in the middle of Cooma. The finding ultimately led to a restoration project for the area, which shows the fantastic outcomes that can result from this type of work by Waterwatch.

“While August might be platypus month, I’d also like to encourage the community to report any platypus sightings from the ACT region so we can build a better picture of the presence and abundance of the species. Information such as contact details, time, date, location and any notes about behaviour and habitat can be sent to waterwatch@act.gov.au”