Researchers from UNSW Sydney have now confirmed that the platypus population at Sydney’s Royal National Park has expanded to 20 known individuals, after the release of four additional animals just this month.
Before this project that began in 2023, platypuses were absent from the national park for more than half a century. “Visitors are reporting platypus sightings along the Hacking River, something that simply hadn’t been possible in living memory. That public connection – people seeing platypuses back where they belong – is one of the most rewarding outcomes of this work.” says Professor Gilad Bino, co-founder of the Platypus Conservation Initiative.
There’s now evidence of breeding across multiple seasons, a major positive for a translocated species. This exceptional wildlife recovery project remains the first successful platypus translocation in the state.
The Wire’s Shaun Dourado spoke with Professor Bino and asked him about the importance of this conservation project at Royal National Park.
Image: Image: Shutterstock – Frank Fichtmueller
Produced By: Shaun Dourado
Featured In Story: Professor Gilad Bino (UNSW)
First aired on The Wire, Wednesday 27 May 2026