Platypus: The Extraordinary Story of How a Curious Creature Baffled the World

Ann Moyal is a historian of science. She has held research and teaching positions at a number of universities and is the founder and past president of the Independent Scholars Association of Australia. She lives in Canberra.

A great account of how a small furry animal managed to challenge biology's beliefs. New Scientist 2005 If any animal has mystery and charisma, it is the platypus. This book tell its story, and it's a winner... It has something for everyone-the excitement of a detective story, the history of biological ideas... Everybody will enjoy this book, and the story continues to unfold... Read it and enjoy. -- David Penny Nature Engaging... In recounting the story of how the platypus was studied and eventually classified, Moyal explains that it became entangled in broader debates over taxonomy and evolution among the wise men of European science. Christian Science Monitor A spirited and eminently readable account of this odd Australian mammal that follows the story of its discovery, the scientific infighting over its place in taxonomy, and modern efforts to understand its biology and keep and breed it in captivity. Booklist Moyal affectionately examines the scientific history of one of nature's most fascinating oddities. Quarterly Review of Biology Moyal's sublime Platypus traces the wild and raucous history of the antipodean creature's introduction to the world. Part history, part mystery, Platypus details how the European scientific community was able to understand this Australian oddity... As remarkable and delightful as its bizarre subject. New York Resident A fascinating 'biography' of the bizarre and unusual creature known to taxonomists as Ornithorhynchus. Science Books and Films 2005 This book about one of the world's most unique animals is written at an academic level, but is clear enough for a serious young person to read. Kliatt 2005 It is a good read. Wildlife Activist 2006