Platypus Electroreception Game

Download Activity Template

The Platypus is a magnificent example of an animal evolving over time to survive in its environment. For example, during their evolution they lost their stomachs as they were no longer necessary to digest the types of food in their diet! They also developed a sixth sense to be able to hunt in their environment. With tens of thousands of receptors in its bill, the Platypus uses electroreception to find its food because underwater it can’t see, hear or smell!

This game is perfect to help celebrate the 2024 National Science Week theme ‘Species Survival – More Than Just Sustainability’ through lessons on the Platypus and how it has evolved to thrive in its environment.

Step 1Download and print the templates provided. We recommend printing onto cardboard as you need sturdy template pieces to glue magnets onto. Decorate one set of template pieces and cut out all 6 pieces. Adult supervision is recommended when using scissors.
Step 2Flip the template pieces over and glue a magnet onto the back of each of the food circles. Make sure the magnets are glued so the small indent circle is facing up on each of the template circles. Glue a magnet onto the Platypus’ bill, making sure the small indent circle is facing down. Allow to dry completely.
Make sure the magnets are glued in this way, so the same pole is facing up on the circles and the opposite pole is facing up on the Platypus.
Step 3Construct a sand art tray and tip in enough sand to cover the base of the tray. You don’t need to fill the tray completely, but a couple of centimetres will work nicely. You may even wish to add some pebbles or foraged sticks from the garden to create a more Platypus friendly environment. Always ensure you have permission before collecting anything from the local environment and adult supervision is recommended.
Step 4. Your Platypus Electroreception Game is now ready to play! To begin the game, choose someone to be the “Platypus” and ask them to close their eyes. Place the food circle pieces into the sand art tray, positioning them wherever you like. Cover the pieces with a thin layer of sand so they are no longer visible but are not buried too deep in the sand.
Step 5Ask the “Platypus” to hold the cardboard Platypus and begin to move its bill over the surface of the sand. The magnet on the bill will be attracted to the buried food circles, imitating the sixth sense of a Platypus when it hunts. The “Platypus” will need to feel for the pull and use this to uncover the food!