* No Global Census: Platypuses are notoriously difficult to count. They live in burrows along rivers and streams in eastern Australia, making a comprehensive census nearly impossible.
* Estimates Vary: Different studies have estimated the population to be in the hundreds of thousands, but these are just rough estimates.
* Threats Exist: The platypus faces challenges like habitat loss, pollution, and introduced predators like foxes. This makes accurately assessing the population even more difficult.
The most important thing is to understand that the platypus is a threatened species, and its population is likely declining. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting this unique animal.