Platypus vanish from river where Charles Darwin pondered evolution
from ABC News
(date posted: 28 December 2025)

In short:

Naturalist Charles Darwin first spotted a platypus in the Coxs River, with the sighting leading him to question the idea of a single creator.

Locals say the shy creatures have disappeared from the area, where "unnaturally high" salinity levels are being recorded.

What's next?

The NSW Environmental Protection Authority says it is working to address community concerns.