Research suggests platypuses may use the Earth's magnetic field to orient themselves while swimming in murky waters. Electroreceptors in the bill may also pick up geomagnetic cues. This allows long-distance travel and precise navigation without relying on sight. They can return to burrows or feeding grounds even in complex waterways. Such navigation is vital in rivers with few landmarks. Magnetic detection may also help during mating migrations. This ability is exceptionally rare in mammals.
Magnetic sensitivity aids survival in low-visibility habitats.
It allows platypuses to navigate efficiently across river networks.
Platypuses may rely on geomagnetic cues during long underwater foraging trips.
Australian Museum (australian.museum)