1947 - 1949 — Penelope the Platypus

1947 - 1949: The Journey

Cecil, Betty, and Penelope are captured in Australia and journey 13,000 miles under the care of David Fleay, director of the Sir Colin Mackenzie Sanctuary at Healesville, Victoria. After Betty dies due to New York weather conditions, the future of captive playtpus breeding depends solely on Cecil and Penelope mating.

Rare Platypuses Arrive, Gobble Up Bronx Worms
Los Angeles Times
Apr 26, 1947

Platypus for Bronx Zoo
The Palestine Post
May 16, 1947

Parade
America
May 24, 1947

Don't Provoke A Platypus: If you do, he'll make your life miserable.
The Sun
June 27, 1948

Betty, the Platypus, Dies of N.Y. Weather
New York Herald Tribune
September 7, 1948

Betty, One of Bronx Zoo's 3 Platypuses, is dead after being exhibited for 16 Months
New York Times
September 7, 1948

Platypus Go In, Penguins Come Out That Means It’s Autumn at Bronx Zoo
New York Times
October 25, 1949