Its care and diet are not easy to replicate for the hobbyist. It’s threatened in the wild and it’s probably not even legal. Keeping a platypus as a pet is almost entirely out of the question. While the venom’s effects are described as extremely painful, it is not lethal to humans Can I have a platypus as a pet? The venom is made in venom glands that are connected to hollow spurs on their hind legs it is primarily made during the mating season. The platypus is one of the few living mammals to produce venom.

The animal’s venom contains defensin-like proteins (DLPs) that cause swelling and excruciating pain. While its sting may be fatal to smaller animals, such as dogs, there has never been a documented human fatality. Healesville Sanctuary in Victoria, for example, estimates that each of its platypus costs at least $13,000 per year to support. Platypus are difficult and expensive animals to keep in captivity, even for major zoos and research institutions. We are often asked whether it is possible to obtain a platypus as a pet. As if you need any other reason, there’s one that might hit closer to home. Having platypuses at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park allows us to broaden the work of Australian zoos to raise awareness for the unique species they work so hard to protect. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to two platypusesthe only platypuses outside of Australia. The platypus can survive for nearly 23 years in captivity Is it possible to have a pet platypus? Some studies have documented individuals living more than 20 years in the wild. They aren’t equipped with teeth that can help them bite, and the only form of defense they have is the pointed spurs in their heels. They are shy animals and will avoid confrontation with humans if they can help it.

Of 15 living platypuses, 3 had been held in captivity for less than 1 year, 5 for between 1 and 5 years, 6 for between 5 and 10 years and 1 for 21 years.

Only 22.4% of all platypuses survived more than 1 year in captivity.

How many platypus are left in the world 2022?.

Is it possible to have a platypus as a pet?.

How long do platypus live in captivity?.

Platypus in zoo