The platypus is a deeply unusual animal for a collection of reasons, not least because it is considered to be the most venomous mammal on the planet. Just a small handful of mammals can deliver a dose of venom – and the duck-billed platypus sting is often cited as the most agonizing. The rest of this article is behind a paywall. Please sign in or subscribe to access the full content.

Platypus venom isn’t potent enough to kill a fully grown human, but it does pack a powerful punch. With no antivenom yet available, victims must simply ride out the pain as best they can with the help of strong painkillers.

How painful is a platypus sting?

A 1992 case report tells the story of a 57-year-old man in Australia who was struck by platypus venom while fishing in North Queensland. The patient

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