While community monitoring is useful, the most effective
way to obtain detailed and reliable information on platypus populations
is by undertaking live-trapping surveys. Because platypus feed in the water
and are mainly active at night, platypus research requires special equipment
and is both time-consuming and logistically demanding.
Platypus surveys are normally undertaken by experienced
biologists, working in accordance with research permits issued by the relevant
state wildlife agency. (NB Trapping of platypus without appropriate permission
is illegal and subject to heavy fines)
Platypus live-trapping surveys generally rely on fyke
(or eel) nets in shallow areas and unweighted gill nets in deeper water.
Nets are checked at frequent intervals in the case of fyke nets and constantly
attended in the case of gill nets, so that animals can be removed promptly
and safely.
For advice on conducting surveys in
your local waterway, contact the Australian Platypus Conservancy.