There is no inherent reason why platypus populations cannot be monitored using visual survey methods: platypus are physically distinctive, occupy a wide range of water bodies that are often easily scanned from the adjoining banks, and are diurnal enough in their habits that thousands of platypus sightings are made every year across the species' range.
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The Australian Platypus Monitoring Network (APMN) provides a new approach to monitoring platypus, based on sightings made by volunteers using a standard visual survey method. It has been designed to be a very flexible program, catering to anyone who routinely walks, jogs, rides a bicycle or otherwise spends time along a creek, river or lake where there is a reasonable chance of seeing platypus on a reasonably frequent basis.
Each volunteer chooses one or a few conveniently located spots to watch for animals and decides when (at what times of day and how many times a week or month) he or she will look for platypus. APMN data is entered into a secure computer database managed by the Australian Platypus Conservancy, and analysed to determine how many sightings have been made in different areas on a monthly or seasonal basis.
Personal details of volunteers are kept confidential. However, reports summarising the combined general findings are produced and forwarded to all APMN participants on a regular basis. For details of the monitoring program (including an interactive map) and how to get involved visit www.platypusnetwork.org.au or email upper.shoalhaven@gmail.com.
