The duckbill, (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), is a small amphibious mammal native to Australia. It has a streamlined flat body with long guard hairs that keep it dry and warm even after hours of swimming. It has webbed front feet and a flat tail to help it swim. It also has thick fur and fatty tissue to store energy.
The platypus is found in forests and freshwater wetlands of Australia. They are about half the size of a house cat and have white patches under their eyes. Males have sharp stingers on their heels that can be used as weapons to attack other animals.
It hunts by diving into water and wriggling its bill. The bill is covered with specialized receptors that detect electrical discharges from prey. It then stores its “catch” in cheek pouches until it comes to the surface, grinds it up with gravel bits hoovered up en route, and swallows it down.
One of the most venomous mammals in the world, males can inject a toxic poison into their target. It is a strong enough to kill a dog or human.
They mate twice a year, August and October. Females raise their young in a burrow for about 17 weeks before they leave to find their own territory. The babies stay with their mother until they are able to get food for themselves.
Duckbill Valve, Minivalve®
The duckbill valve is a unique one-piece elastomeric component. It has lips in the shape of a duckbill that prevent backflow and allow forward flow. These one-way check valves are self contained, require no maintenance, do not slam when closed and are resistant to fouling. They are used in a variety of applications including fuel pumps to restrict the flow of fuel, anti- siphon valves in toilets, pumping stations and vacuum chambers, one-way and two-way valves for venturi jet pumps, and valves for sewage treatment plants.