Platypus playtime

In a chest-deep pool, visitors to Australia can pet, play with and feed a platypus at the zoo Healesville Sanctuary (Badger Creek Rd., Healesville, Victoria, 3777, Australia; phone +61 3 5957 2800, www.zoo.org.au/healesville).

The “Wade with a Platypus” activity, limited to two people per visit (children under 12 not permitted), must be booked in advance and takes place at 11:15 a.m. Mon., Wed. and Fri.-Sun. Including park entry fee, it costs AUD175 (near $132) per person. Healesville Sanctuary is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, and entry costs AUD32.50 ($25).