#6 The Platypus

The unusual and distinctive platypus lives in eastern Australia. It is one of the very few mammals capable of producing venom, although it is not among the most venomous creatures in the world. The platypus’s venom is located in its hind legs, more specifically in the male’s spur.

The platypus is a little, semi-aquatic mammal that is roughly the size of a house cat. Its body is covered in brown fur, it has webbed feet for swimming, and it has a large bill that resembles a duck’s bill. On their hind legs, males have spiky spurs that are venomous and can sting.

Although the platypus’s venom isn’t thought to be lethal to people, it can nonetheless be excruciatingly painful, especially where a wound is present. Defensin-like proteins, a substance in the venom that can result in swelling and extreme pain, are present. Other symptoms such as weakness and headaches, as well as pain that lasts for days, may also be present. 

Since they are not aggressive, platypuses normally reserve the use of their venom for self-defense or during the breeding season. For the least chance of being stung, it is advisable to watch them from a safe distance.

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