Redlands Coast residents are urged to be on the lookout for young koalas as they move through the city searching for new habitat during the annual koala dispersal season.
Mayor Jos Mitchell said the small koalas were known to travel long distances during this period and sometimes turned up in surprising places.
“The dispersal season is happening now and usually occurs throughout June and July, but can also extend into koala breeding season from August to December,” the Mayor said.
“Young koalas leave their mums during this period in search of a new home, often travelling through urban areas such as backyards, car parks, sports fields and other public spaces.
“They are usually aged 18 months and weigh just 3–5 kilograms when they head out into the world on their own, making them particularly vulnerable.
“Motorists in particular are urged to take care during the dispersal season as young koalas sometimes make their way onto roadways while searching for their new home.
“If we all work together, we can ensure our city’s precious koala population is protected into the future.”
Sightings of injured or ill koalas should be reported to the Redlands 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service on 3833 4031.
To help young koalas travel safely, you can:
- Keep your distance and allow them to move about freely, as long as they are not in immediate danger
- Slow down while driving and be alert for koala movement, particularly at night
- Create a koala-friendly yard by confining or restraining your dogs at night, as well as providing pool and fence escapes.
For more information on our local koalas, including how to spot a sick or injured koala, visit Council’s koala webpage.
Redland City Council provides a suite of services to 166,873 residents and more than 63,000 residential households across Redlands Coast. Our naturally wonderful city on Quandamooka Country is home to more than 335 kilometres of coastline, six island communities and 12 mainland suburbs.
