There are countless unique and interesting facts about the world we live in, and it can be hard to choose just one to focus on. Here is a fun fact about an animal that is both unique and fascinating:

Did you know that the platypus is one of the only mammals in the world that lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young? The platypus is a mammal that is native to Australia and is known for its distinct combination of features. It has the bill and webbed feet of a duck, the fur of a mammal, and the tail of a beaver. But, one of the most unique characteristics of the platypus is that it lays eggs.

Female platypuses will lay 1-3 eggs at a time, and they will incubate them in a burrow for around 10-12 days before the eggs hatch. The young platypuses, or "platypups," are born blind and hairless, and they are completely dependent on their mother for the first few months of their lives.

The platypus is also one of the only mammals that can detect electric fields. It has specialized receptors in its bill that allow it to detect the electric fields generated by the movement of prey in the water. This allows the platypus to locate and capture food even in murky or dark waters.

The platypus is also a venomous mammal. Only the male platypus has venomous spurs on their hind legs, and while the venom is not fatal to humans, it can cause severe pain. Indigenous Australians have known this for centuries and used the venom for medicinal purpose.

The platypus is also a fascinating animal in terms of its genetics. It has a unique combination of genetic features that are not found in any other mammal, including multiple copies of genes that are associated with the development of both reptilian and mammalian characteristics.

It is also a unique survivor. It was once widely distributed across Eastern Australia, but its range has been greatly reduced by habitat loss and hunting. Today it is found in only small pockets of its former range, mostly in the eastern states of Australia.

In conclusion, the platypus is a truly unique and fascinating animal. It has a combination of features that are not found in any other mammal, including the ability to lay eggs, electric sense, venomous spurs and unique genetics. Despite facing challenges, it has managed to survive and continue to amaze us with its unique characteristics.