Wombat And Platypus

The common wombat was once found throughout south eastern Australia. They are a fairly large, solidly built animal with a squat, round, bearlike body, small ears and eyes, and a large naked nose. Its thick, coarse fur varies in colour from sandy brown to grey and black, and is sometimes flecked with fawn. In Tasmanis the wombat is widespread and found from sea level to alpine areas but shows a preference for heathland, coastal scrub and open forest, where soils favour their burrowing habits. Wombats often dig their burrows in the areas above creeks and gullies. They usually coming out at night to graze when temperatures are lower. In cold periods they may sometimes be seen about during the day either grazing or basking in the sun.
The platypus is widespread in eastern Australia, ranging from tropical lowlands to sub-alpine areas. They are readily identified by their streamlined body, webbed feet, broad tail and characteristic muzzle or bill which is soft and pliable. An adult platypus is from 45 cm to 60cm in length and may weigh up to 2.7kg, with females generally smaller than males. They live in burrows they dig on the banks of fresh water rives, lakes or streams. Burrows are usually 4.5 to 9m in length, oval shaped and are constructed just above the water line, often obscured by vegetation. platypus forage for food for about 12--13 hours everyday and can consume up to half their own body weight a day. They dive for between 20-40 seconds during foraging, resting on the surface for only 10 seconds between dives. They perform about 80 dives per hour.