Platypuses are well adapted to their semi-aquatic lifestyle, but they can also move on land, although they are not as agile on land as they are in the water. Here's how platypuses move on land:
1. **Walking:** On land, platypuses move by walking on all fours. They have webbed feet, which are well-suited for swimming but can also be used for walking. Their front and hind feet have sharp claws that are helpful for digging burrows in riverbanks.
2. **Waddling Gait:** Their movement on land is often described as a waddling gait due to their distinctive body shape and webbed feet. They can move with relative ease but are generally slower and less agile on land compared to in the water.
3. **Burrowing:** Platypuses dig burrows in riverbanks for shelter, and their strong front claws are essential for this purpose. They use these burrows for nesting, protecting their eggs, and taking refuge.
While platypuses are primarily aquatic animals and are most at home in the water, their ability to move on land is sufficient for their needs, such as nesting and escaping from predators. However, they are much more graceful and efficient swimmers.