Insect

Restoring Platypus Habitat along the Dandenong Creek

Platypus were once common in Dandenong Creek.

These elusive animals are still present in the upper catchment of the Dandenong Creek but would have lived along the whole creek at one stage.

They are sensitive animals and require stable banks for their burrows, clean flowing water for their food source and protection from fishing line and other litter that would cause them to drown.

This project seeks to address habitat destruction, waterway pollution and land clearing which has resulted in the loss of the platypus from Dandenong Creek.

By planting indigenous plants along the bank, this project will begin the process of bringing this site back to habitat that is suitable for the platypus. The long term focus will be  weed control, addressing storm water pollutants and litter, stabilising the banks and increasing vegetation overhanging.

Dandenong Creek can be accessed via Tirhatuan Park and is a great place to birdwatch while taking take a stroll or a ride.

This project is funded by the Federal Government through the Communities Environment Program Grants and the City of Greater Dandenong.

Platypus
On