In
early february 2001, the North Coast of NSW experienced major flooding.
Not only do floods wreak havoc on the lives of human beings, they
have major impact on our fragile wildlife.
At
this time of the year young Platypus,
also known as puggles, are just starting to emerge from their burrows,
but are still very much dependant on their mother and the safety
of the burrow.
Even
though Platypus builds their burrows up to 20 meters into the riverbank
( prior to laying eggs) they can not escape the rapid rising of
the river in a flood.
As
Platypus are such secretive animals I guess we rarely would give
them a second thought when the water is rising, but if you are
fortunate enough to live near a creek where platypus are known
to live, PLEASE think about it, they may be in big trouble.
These
little Platypus were the unfortunate victims of this flood.
Weighing
257 and 240 gram respectively, they were found 24 hours apart, washed
up in a puddle on a small dirt road leading into pristine rain forest,
the only way to describe the scenery would be paradise, waterfalls
on 3 sides, spectacular views.
I
imagine their burrow may have been further up the embankment as
the road was cut in to the hillside, the creek further down, and
thick vegetation covering everything, except the road itself.
We
searched for the burrow but our search was futile, in reality they
could have traveled a fair distance down the hill, swept by the
torrent of water coming out of the hills surrounding us.
Unfortunately
the little female did not survive more then a day, she had internal
injuries.
I
took the male to Flays Wildlife Park as they have vast knowledge
in the care of these animals, but he also died after a few days
in care.
I believe internal injuries again was the cause.
