Patchily distributed throughout
the east coast of Australia. An egg-laying mammal (Monotreme). Shy and
difficult to observe except where they have become more used to human presence
such as at Broken River, Eungella. Mostly solitary with higher densities
occurring in more natural areas. Feeds on aquatic invertebrates, storing food
in cheek pouches until it can be chewed while floating on the surface. Shelters
in a den in the bank of stream or dam. Lays 2 eggs and juveniles are fed by
mother for 4-5 months.
A field Guide to the Mammals of Australia by Menkhorst & Knight
