Platypus

The Platypus is a semi-aquatic animal native to Australia. The platypus is a monotreme which means that it is a mammal that lays eggs. There are only 5 species in the world to do this. Monotremes are so rare that the discovery of the Platypus in Australia was initially considered questioned and considered a hoax. Scientists in England, upon first seeing the specimen sent to them from Australia, all but destroyed the animal in an attempt to prove that it was fraudulent. Scientists even trimmed off the fur to check for stitches that would attach a duck's beak to a beaver.

Both the male and female platypus have ankle spurs but only the male's spur is venomous. While the venom is not powerful enough to kill a human it will cause excruciating discomfort.

The Platypus has become an iconic animal symbol of Australia and is represented on one side of the Australian 20 cent coin and is also the mascot of New South Wales.