Natural disasters and the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus): criteria and protocols to guide emergency response and interventions

Recent catastrophic climate events in Australia that have affected millions of animals across a range of landscapes have initiated a need for planned and coordinated rescue responses. The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is one of Australia’s most iconic and biologically significant species. At a workshop held at Healesville Sanctuary, Victoria, Australia, in 2023, species experts discussed the greatest threats, scenarios where intervention may be required and the types of intervention option that may be suitable for platypuses. We consider drought to be the most concerning event for the species, along with the impact of cumulative events on their habitat over time. Here, we discuss how intervention criteria should consider the degree of habitat impact, the recovery time frame, the genetic importance and local extinction risk of a population, risks to animal welfare, and the capacity requirements and feasibility of resourcing any action. Suitable interventions are weighed against potential risks and include the rescue and rehabilitation of displaced individuals, in situ habitat support, and translocation to either temporary ex situ care or inter or intra catchment. Further research is required to address how the platypus responds during and after different climate events, and to different interventions, and to determine which populations are most at risk. The outcomes discussed here and the framework provided should aid in management response decision-making after natural disasters that may impact platypus populations.