Angus, our seasoned Koala Keeper, remains fascinated by the sight of these iconic creatures in their natural habitat. He relishes the opportunity to observe their behaviour firsthand. Drawing from his experience, Angus offers insights on how you can contribute to wildlife preservation.
Koalas, beloved symbols of Australia, continue to capture hearts with their endearing demeanour. Despite their charm, encounters with these marsupials in the wild are becoming increasingly rare, particularly for younger generations. In our previous article in the Last Post Magazine, our discussion emphasised the critical need for conservation efforts spanning various domains, underlining the importance of protecting both wild populations and those housed in wildlife parks and zoos. However, our dedication to the welfare of not just koalas but also numerous other native species extends beyond mere conservation.
At Oakvale, we urge our visitors to participate in initiatives geared towards wildlife preservation actively:
Habitat Restoration:
Trees are koalas’ lifeblood, offering sustenance, hydration, and shelter—essential elements for their survival. Engaging in habitat restoration endeavours is paramount. Whether it involves planting gum trees on your property or contributing to community projects focused on establishing wildlife corridors and reclaiming lost habitats, every action matters. Even simple gestures, like planting a bottlebrush tree in your yard, can provide sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife, including koalas.
Vigilance and Action:
Swift action is essential if you encounter any wildlife in distress, especially koalas. Whether deceased, injured, disoriented, or facing threats from predators, including domestic pets, contacting your local wildlife rescue is the most important thing you can do. As each area has their own wildlife rescue group, jump online and look up the local rescue group in your area, keep their contact information readily accessible on your phone or on the fridge at home. They will come out and assess the animal and take measures to ensure that the right form of action is taken. Immediate contact with rescue groups is essential in cases of koalas involved in accidents, potentially saving the lives of joeys and other vulnerable individuals. We all know accidents happen; should you ever hit a koala in your car, please do not panic. What you do next matters. Contact your local wildlife rescue group. They can assist in ensuring the koala receives medical attention if possible, or if it is a female koala, ensure that there are no young joeys in the pouch or nearby.
Rescue groups are always looking for new volunteers. If you have a passion for wildlife and want to learn more about the amazing wildlife in Australia, speak to your local wildlife rescue centre to find out how you can help.
Embracing Sustainability:
Embracing sustainable practices in our daily lives can return substantial positive outcomes. While individual actions may seem small, collectively, they carry significant influence. Consider the origins of the products you purchase, from electricity to household items. Choose sustainably sourced alternatives like purchasing wooden products that are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified (see logo), prioritise second-hand goods, and support recycling initiatives. By making conscientious choices, you not only reduce environmental strain but also contribute to the preservation of habitats threatened by resource extraction.
Additionally, if you desire to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and instil a love for wildlife in future generations, explore tall eucalypt forests during the summer, particularly at dawn or dusk. Listen for the distinctive growling snort—a telltale indication of a nearby koala; this sound can be heard up to a kilometre away. Should you see a koala in the wild, maintain a respectful distance and report your sightings for citizen science projects, facilitating research and conservation efforts. Scientists can track their numbers and understand their behaviours to assist our wildlife better. Look online under “Report a Koala Sighting” to find your local area citizen science project.
Those eager to delve deeper into the world of koalas can come and visit us at Oakvale Wildlife Park. Here, you can admire these remarkable creatures and cultivate a deeper appreciation for Australia’s diverse biodiversity.
Written by: ANGUS HOBBS-HAIGH