Annual Platypus Survey Result 2024

This year, 48 dedicated volunteers surveyed 34 sites across Moggill and Gold Creeks as part of the annual MCCG platypus survey. A total of 13 platypuses were sighted, with three sites recording two individuals each. Sightings were well distributed, spanning from Upper Brookfield to the Moggill Road Bridge. Although platypuses had been recently spotted in hotspot areas like Branton Street and Mumford Bridge, they managed to evade us on the morning of the survey.

Overall, the creek habitat appears healthy, though some areas are showing signs of low water levels, and sections that were once deep are becoming shallow due to sediment and gravel buildup. Shallow waters pose a concern for platypus movement, especially during breeding season to find friends, and it also makes them vulnerable to predators (like the fox spotted at Creekside Park which will be reported to the council). We’re collaborating with Brisbane City Council (BCC) to address these issues, focusing on creating deeper pools—either naturally, using log jams and large tree roots, or through dredging with input from experts such as hydrologists.

On a serious note, three funnel nets were recorded at Branton Street. Such nets are legal, and are commonly used for shrimping, but aquatic wildlife can easily become trapped and drown in such traps (as Wildlife Queensland has documented).

Thank you to the volunteers who joined bright and early to help gain valuable data, to the Team Leaders, and to Bridget and Helen for coming to support the breakfast. See you all next year for the 20th Anniversary MCCG Survey!

Dr Tamielle Brunt

Photos from this years Platypus survey from Cheryl Turner

PLATYWALKS

BCC is supporting a number of free ‘Platypus Watch Walk & Talk’ events, where PlatypusWatch Project Officer Dr Tamielle Brunt will talk about this amazing animal as well as the research happening in Brisbane. As you walk through known platypus habitat, Tamielle will talk about what keeps them happy in the waterways, local conservation efforts and how you can get involved with the ACF Platy-Project monitoring program.

Members may be particularly interested on the PlatyMonth walk on Friday, 27th September (4-6pm) which takes place at Gold Creek Reservoir, 660 Gold Creek Road Brookfield.

To register for this free event, book via Eventbrite. The organisers highlight that there is no guarantee that platypuses will be present during the guided walk.

Tamielle also reminds us all, ‘Citizen science is a vital tool in monitoring wildlife populations, and as many of you know, it’s PlatyMonth! You can contribute by recording your sightings with the ACF Platy-Project.

10 Tips to help our Platypus

For more information about Platypus and how to look out for and care for them click on the link for the Platypus brochure from Wildlife Queensland