A fisherman in Australia has captured remarkable video footage of an unusually light-coloured platypus, affectionately dubbed ‘Pinky’, in a secluded river in Gippsland, Victoria.
A Chance Encounter on the River
Cody Stylianou made the surprising discovery in September during his first trout fishing trip of the season. He spotted the distinctive monotreme feeding at the surface of a river stained dark by tannins, which made its pale pinkish hue stand out starkly. Stylianou has wisely chosen to keep the exact location a secret to protect the animal from disturbance.
Expert Analysis of Pinky's Colouration
Biologist Jeff Williams, director of the Australian Platypus Conservancy, provided insight into the platypus's unique appearance. He stated that while Pinky's colouring is "somewhat unusual", it is not a true albino or leucistic platypus. "Platypus do vary a lot in colour," Williams explained. "And this one’s at the extreme end of the light ones. It’s not one that we consider should be added to the list of albino and leucistic ones." This confirms Pinky represents a natural, though rare, colour variation within the species.
Conservation and Public Interest
The sighting has generated significant interest, highlighting the public's fascination with unique wildlife. The incident underscores the importance of respectful wildlife observation and habitat protection. By withholding the precise fishing spot, Stylianou has taken a responsible approach, allowing Pinky to continue its life without the pressure of potential onlookers. The video serves as a charming reminder of the diversity and mystery still present in Australia's natural ecosystems.
