How to Draw a Platypus: Easy 10-Step Guide for Kids

Ready to bring this unique Australian mammal to life? This tutorial is perfect for artists ages 5 and up, requiring only a pencil, paper, and an eraser. By following these simple shapes, you will master the platypus's iconic bill and webbed feet in no time.

10 Steps

🎯 Final Result

A friendly, finished cartoon platypus illustration.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sketching the Iconic Bill

Line drawing of a platypus bill showing the U-shape and nostril details.

Start by drawing the platypus's duck-like bill. Use a gentle wavy line for the top and a wide 'U' shape for the bottom. Teacher's Tip: Keep the bill slightly rounded at the corners to make it look friendly, and add two small dashes near the tip for nostrils.

Step 2: Adding the Eyes

Close-up of platypus eyes with pupils and cheek lines.

Draw two curved lines above the bill to create the cheeks, then add a partial oval above each for the eyes. Place a small circle inside each oval and shade it in. Tip: Leave a tiny white dot inside the pupil to give your platypus a 'sparkle' of life.

Step 3: Defining the Head

Outline of the platypus head connecting the bill to the skull.

Connect the sides of the bill with smooth, curved lines to form the round head. Tip: Use a light touch here; imagine you are drawing a soft, furry cap around the face.

Step 4: Sketching the Front Leg

Drawing the front leg and webbed foot of the platypus.

Draw a long, curved line for the side of the leg. At the bottom, add two small rounded triangles for the claws. Connect these with curved lines to form the webbed foot. Tip: Add a few tiny 'v' shapes on the foot to represent the webbing between the toes.

Step 5: Adding the Belly and Fur Texture

Sketching the belly and adding fur texture lines.

Use curved lines that meet in a 'T' shape to define the belly and rear leg. Tip: Use short, quick pencil strokes along the shoulder and hip to create the look of soft fur.

Step 6: Drawing the Rear Foot

Draw the back leg with a long, sweeping curve. Add three rounded triangles for the claws and connect them. Tip: Make sure the rear foot looks slightly larger than the front one to show perspective.

Step 7: Defining the Back

Drawing the long, curved back of the platypus.

Use one long, continuous curved line to draw the platypus's back. Tip: Keep your hand steady and try to draw this line in one smooth motion for a clean look.

Step 8: Adding the Tail

Adding the broad, flat tail to the platypus body.

Draw a long, curved line that doubles back on itself to create the flat, paddle-like tail. Add a small line to indicate the remaining rear leg. Tip: Platypus tails are broad and flat, so don't make it too pointy!

Step 9: Finalizing the Legs

Completing the final leg and foot details.

Draw the final foreleg using long, curved lines. Add the three claws and webbing details just like you did for the first leg. Tip: Check that all four feet are roughly the same size to keep your drawing balanced.

Step 10: Coloring Your Masterpiece

Finished, colored cartoon platypus drawing.

Your outline is complete! Color your platypus with shades of brown for the fur, and use a darker, richer brown for the bill and feet. Tip: Use a light tan or cream color for the belly to add contrast.