As the Redlands Coast koala population approaches its annual breeding season, a new generation of young koalas are striking out on their own.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the young koalas would be stepping out into the wider world over the next few months as they start adult life.
“The yearly koala dispersal occurs in Redlands Coast from early June until late July, but it can also extend into koala breeding season, which happens between August and December,” Cr Williams said.
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“During this time, they leave the safety of their mothers to explore new terrain on foot, often travelling long distances in search of new homes.
“They can turn up in unexpected places, and I urge residents to be on the lookout for these vulnerable native animals, particularly at night.”
Council’s Threatened Species Program Adviser – Koala Conservation, Dr Cathryn Dexter said the dispersing koalas were usually aged around 18 months.
“They are smaller than adults and can be mistaken for joeys,” Dr Dexter said.
“They use all kinds of trees as stepping stones in their exploration, not limiting themselves to the usual eucalypts while travelling.
“Everyone can play a part in ensuring the next generation of koalas can safely find territories of their own, which often means travelling through bushland and backyards, and venturing onto roads and public spaces.”
For more information on local koalas, including how to spot a sick or injured koala, and to record your sightings of the young koalas, visit Council’s website at redland.qld.gov.au/koalawatch.
How you can help young dispersing koalas
- Let them continue on their way without interference, as long as they are not in immediate danger, as your ‘help’ can confuse them and lead to unexpected danger.
- Create a koala-friendly backyard by confining or restraining your dogs at night, putting a wooden pole or ladder against your fence so they can continue on through, and a floating water aid in your pool so they can climb out if they fall in.
- When driving, slow down and be alert to wildlife movement on the sides of the road, particularly at night.
- If you are worried about the health or welfare of any koala, phone the Redlands 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service on 3833 4031.
- Join the Redlands Coast Koala Watch community online and record your koala sightings to help improve the health and wellbeing of our local koala population.
