Despite the platypus having an iconic status in Australia, much remains unknown about the monotreme – particularly its population numbers – until sniffer dogs were taught the new trick of finding them.

Zoos Victoria Wildlife Detection Dog Officer Naomi Hodgens spoke with Julie-anne Sprague on 6PR’s Afternoons and said the platypuses are cryptic and elusive.

Press PLAY to hear how Kip the sniffer dog has been trained to find the elusive platypus