Coliban flow targets platypus

Apr 6, 2022

Keep connected: Platypus foraging around the banks of the Coliban River downstream of Malmsbury Reservoir were once a common sight but climate change and challenging flow patterns have had an impact on them, which is why water for the environment is being delivered down the river this month. Photo by contributed

Up to 260 megalitres of water will flow down the Coliban River from mid to late April to provide habitat for platypus.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

“The main target of this fresh is juvenile platypus,” North Central Catchment Management Authority’s Darren White said.

“We know in at least one part of the river, directly below the Malmsbury Reservoir, there is a strong breeding population of platypus.

“This is the time of year when the juveniles start leaving home and we need to make sure there is enough water in the river to help them roam up and downstream.

“This flow will reconnect any pools and help make it easier for them to find food and explore new areas. And it will provide protection for them from predators.

“As we see low numbers across the state, this platypus population is one that really needs to be protected.”

The flow will also help other plants and animals in the river.

“It will also improve the health of the vegetation on the riverbank and scrape any slime off surfaces,” Mr White said.

“When the slime regrows, it’s brilliant food for waterbugs, which are key parts of the diet of platypus.”

North Central CMA manages environmental flows on behalf of the Victorian Environmental Water Holder.

Regular watering updates are posted on the North Central CMA website: www.nccma.vic.gov.au