The First Platypus Translocation in NSW Has Resulted in a Puggle!

A six-month-old baby platypus has been discovered in Sydney’s Royal National Park – the first to be born in the area for over 50 years!

Less than a year ago, ten platypus were translocated to Sydney’s Royal National Park in an effort to return the species to the area after it had been locally extinct for more than half a century.

Scientists and researchers from UNSW Sydney, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, and WWF Australia, with the support of NSW National Parks and Wildlife, are thrilled to discover that these efforts have resulted in breeding success. An 850g female puggle – named Gilli – has been discovered in the Hacking River during a routine health assessment of the group. 

Coupla proud parents! Dr Gilad Bino and Dr Tahneal Hawke of UNSW

‘Finding the juvenile platypus is a clear sign the reintroduced population is not just surviving but thriving, adapting well to their environment, and contributing to the genetic diversity and resilience of this iconic species’, said Dr Gilad Bino, UNSW Conservation Scientist and the project lead.

The puggle was caught in a net laid in a hot spot in the river that had indicated regular platypus activity. Before it was released, researchers assessed her condition, fitted her with a microchip, and took several samples to help identify her genetics. 

Assessments confirmed the puggle is in excellent condition and her estimated age – around six months old – places her birth at the end of platypus breeding season, meaning she’s only just emerged from her burrow. The research team says it’s possible there are more babies in the area.

Looks like she’s been eating well!

The breeding success is particularly significant as multiple instances of the pollution of Camp Gully Creek, upstream of Hacking River, have been pinpointed to the nearby Metropolitan Colliery, causing fear that the translocated group may struggle to survive. However this has not seemed to immediately harm the platypuses living there.

The ongoing monitoring of the original ten platypus – six female, four male – has confirmed they are all still active, with some venturing past the detection range. This project was the first translocation of platypus in NSW, with the original group being sourced from across the state to ensure genetic diversity. 

One of the original platypus being released in 2023

‘The success of this reintroduction underscores the vital role that targeted conservation actions, such as translocations, rescues, and reintroductions, play in the preservation of the platypus across its range’, said Dr Gilad Bino. 

More species reintroductions are planned for the coming years. Here’s hoping they’re as successful as this one!

Images supplied by NSW Environment and Heritage