Despite being small mammals, platypuses can live up to 17 years in captivity and over a decade in the wild. Their low predation risk and semi-aquatic lifestyle contribute to longevity. Slow reproductive rates and energy-efficient foraging also help extend life. Adults face threats mainly from habitat loss and water pollution. Longer lifespans allow for prolonged reproductive opportunities. Survivors of early juvenile stages have high survival rates. Longevity is impressive considering their small size and energy-intensive lifestyle.
Long lifespan supports population stability in fluctuating environments.
It allows multiple breeding seasons to offset low juvenile survival rates.
Platypuses can survive more than ten years in natural habitats.
Australian Museum (australian.museum)