Rare Orca Hunt Captured on Video in Australia

Trail cameras in Flaggy Creek, Queensland, have captured footage of a platypus, a sight not seen in the area for decades, according to local ranger Alfred Hunter. The observation has sparked excitement among residents, especially among Indigenous elders who noted the species' absence in Kuranda in recent years.
The platypus, characterized by its duck-like bill and webbed feet, faces threats from habitat destruction and climate change, contributing to a significant population decline. The World Wildlife Fund reports that numbers have decreased by 22% since 1990 and could plummet by 30% in the next 21 years if protections are not implemented. Classified as "near threatened," some areas list the species as vulnerable or endangered, while others consider it common.
Trail cameras have become vital tools for conservationists, helping track species health. The presence of the platypus near Kuranda is viewed as a hopeful indicator, with local elder Aunty Rita Gutchen expressing hope for breeding in the area. The observation underscores the importance of environmental management in preserving Australia's unique wildlife.