Platypus with EnviroDNA

PLATYPUS with EnviroDNA
Do you want to support native wildlife and biodiversity by helping to monitor platypus numbers? Then come along and learn all about environmental DNA and how you can become a citizen scientist. Join KCLG and platypus ecologist Josh Griffiths for a presentation, morning tea and creek visit. 

Josh will discuss the major threats and conservation status of platypuses in Victoria and some of the research that has lead to their listing as Threatened. In particular how the use of eDNA has revolutionised how we can monitor populations at scales never before achievable. Josh will also demonstrate how to collect an eDNA sample from the local creek

What is environmental DNA & EnviroDNA?

Every living creature leaves traces of DNA in the environment through skin cells, hair, scales and other bodily secretions. This is known as environmental DNA- natures fingerprint! It is EnviroDNA's job to find it! 

By collecting an environmental sample, such as water, soil or scats, EnviroDNA can trace native wildlife, pests and introduced species. This is an ideal solution if you are looking to survey species for priority or threatened species management, or efficiently detect a species that is shy or in low abundance....like the platypus.

AMAZING  PLATY- FACTS
~Platypuses have a lower body temp than other mammals which helps to conserve energy when living in cold streams.

~Male platypuses have a venomous spur on their hind leg.

~Platypuses are one of only five mammals to lay eggs! (The other 4 are all echidnas)

~Platypuses locate their food underwater by using electroreception.

WHERE & WHEN

We are running two identical sessions. Please book for one session only to allow others to enjoy this event too!

~Saturday, 2nd March, 10am-12noon @ Mt Beauty Neighbourhood Centre

~Sunday, 3rd March, 9:45am-12noon @ Nelson Mac Pavilion, Yackandandah Sports Park

WHAT TO BRING

• Notepad, pen & water bottle
• Wear sturdy, enclosed shoes and appropriate outdoor clothing, sun protection, and a raincoat or umbrella in case of showers
• If you are unwell on the day please remain at home in consideration of the health of others

• Morning tea will be provided
  

• Physical Fitness level required: EASY (sitting for 45 minutes or more, short walk, standing creek-side for 45 minutes or more, flight of stairs into the Yackandandah venue )

RESOURCES

• More about EnviroDNA
  
• Want to know more about platypus
  

For further information or queries contact Chontelle (KCLG Project Officer)

•  chontelle@kclg.org.au   ~  0491 624 943

The Platypus Enviro DNA events are supported by the Victorian Government through the Connecting Communities with Biodiversity in the Kiewa River Catchment Project. 

While we are able to cater for gluten-free and vegetarian options at our events it is difficult to cater for every dietary requirement due to our limited funding. If you have dietary requirements outside of these two options please bring your own food and drink. 

Photos

Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups (KCLG) may use photos taken of you at this event to publicise the event and may retain the photos for future possible use in other projects. This can only occur with your approval, which will be collected during your registration. Please read the below participant photography consent statement carefully. 

By agreeing to having photos taken during this event you give consent to KCLG freely using your photographic image without any personal compensation or remuneration. You also relinquish and waive any current or future rights in connection with the photos, including any intellectual property rights you may have in the photos. Your consent is subject to KCLG not using your image in a negative, unethical or defamatory manner, or for commercial gain or political purposes. The photos remain the property of KCLG and any personal details linked to the photos will be kept confidential and not used for any other purpose

 Privacy

Note - Information collected by KCLG is collected for the purposes of event registration, insurance and emergency contact purposes on the day of an event. Your information will remain private and will not be shared with any Third Parties.