Platypus in The Hills

Platypuses have been recently discovered in the Cattai catchment for the first time near urban areas in Sydney’s northern fringe in 25 years.

Media Release: Celebrate the Discovery of Platypuses in The Hills this August

Following sightings and e-DNA evidence testing the presence of platypus in waterways, citizen scientists with the Cattai Hills Environment Network (CHEN) and researchers with Western Sydney University set up nets and captured a healthy platypus in the Cattai Creek catchment.

The DNA evidence of the monotremes living in the catchment zone in 2020 combined with the capture of ‘Bluey’ the healthy platypus in February has led the group to believe there are at least 18 platypuses living in the creek system that runs from Castle Hill to the Hawkesbury River.

We have a platypus population living on our doorstep - here are some ways you can protect the platypus in your backyards and communities to ensure the survival of this platypus population:

• Spread the word that platypus are living in The Hills.
• Do riverbank restoration on your property or through your local landcare or bushcare group - if you live in the area, please free to join ‘Platypus Landcare’ where we can work with you to help you restore your property for platypus (please contact our Environmental Education Officer for more information 9843 0533) or Platypus Bushcare Group where the community come together to restore habitat for platypus.
• Join community clean-ups and help reduce litter in your community and area. Litter entanglement is one of the top threats to platypuses in The Hills.
• Get involved in stream watch and water bug surveys.
• Be aware of what goes down the drains. Simple things such as washing your car on the lawn, reducing the use of chemicals, and not blowing leaves and grass clippings down the stormwater drain can make a big difference.

 

Celebrating Platypus Month: Protecting the unique population in The Hills

The enchanting world of the platypus came alive in The Hills as community members, citizen scientists from the Cattai Hills Environment Network (CHEN) and Dr Michelle Ryan from Western Sydney University joined forces during Platypus Month. 

This special time allowed residents to learn about the remarkable discovery of the local platypus population and take action to protect these unique creatures for the future.

Workshops and celebrations

Throughout Platypus Month, which happened in August, workshops and celebrations brought the community closer to their aquatic neighbours. 

Three workshops were held, with an additional event in October catered to various interests and age groups.

The first workshop, Platypus and Riverbank Restoration, aimed to educate attendees on the importance of preserving riverbank habitats for platypus. It highlighted the importance of being a responsible steward of these environments.

A workshop designed especially for kids was another highlight of the month. Young participants had the chance to watch footage of platypuses in The Hills and explore the fascinating world of water bugs, which serve as a crucial food source for these elusive creatures.

The remaining two workshops delved into the research and stories of the local platypus population, shedding light on their presence in the local community and offering insights into how residents could contribute to their conservation. 

These workshops drew over 100 attendees, showcasing the commitment of the community to protect this local population.

An especially heartwarming celebration came from Balcombe Heights childcare, who organised a birthday party for their platypus friend, 'Platy'. This came complete with a lively rendition of the platypus song and a hearty "happy birthday".

Platypus Bushcare

Over 40 dedicated Bushcare volunteers rolled up their sleeves to engage in the vital work of restoring the riverbank along Cattai Creek. 

Their efforts included planting, mulching, and weeding to create a healthier habitat for the local platypus population. 

Platypus Bushcare is held once a month at Connelly Way, in Kellyville.  

No experience is necessary, but Council does encourage participants to register via Council's website (www.thehills.nsw.gov.au) and by searching 'Platypus Bushcare'. 

Partnerships for Platypus

Council has also partnered with Cattai Hills Environment Network and Greater Sydney Landcare to help run and support Platypus Landcare.

This initiative focuses on restoring platypus habitats on local landholder properties along waterways and other key areas where platypus reside. 

For those interested in contributing to Platypus Landcare, they are encouraged to contact Council's Environmental Education Officer on (02) 9843 0533.