Now is the time that young koalas are on the move, says Redland City Council. Photo: stock (pixabay)
Redland City Council is urging drivers to watch out for young koalas on the move across the city as their annual dispersal season begins.
Redland Mayor Jos Mitchell says koalas can travel long distances during this season and can pop up in unexpected places such as car parks and CBDs.
“We also know they tend to travel across roads so it’s absolutely vital that all motorists keep an eye out for koalas, particularly at night and when travelling through signed koala zones,” she says.
“Council is also calling on all residents to ensure their yards are koala safe by setting up fence and pool escapes, and ensuring dogs and cats are either confined inside a property or restrained at night.”
Mitchell points out that attacks from dogs and vehicle strikes are some of the biggest killers of koalas.
“Given their vulnerability during dispersal season, we all need to play our part in keeping the local population safe.”
Young koalas are normally aged 18 months and weigh as little as 3-5 kilograms when they venture out in search of new habitat during dispersal season.
Mitchell explains that the koalas will not limit themselves to bushland when exploring new terrain.
“The young koalas are known to appear in urban areas such as car parks, backyards and even CBDs during this period,” she says.
“Dispersal season usually occurs between June and July but can sometimes stretch into breeding season, which is between August and December.
“It’s important that you do not interfere with koalas during their journeys as this could cause them to become disorientated and put them in danger.
“If you notice a sick or injured koala, please call the Redlands 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service on 3833 4031 and an officer will assist.”
PROTECTING KOALAS
- Slow down on the roads and be alert for koalas, particularly at night.
- Keep your distance and allow koalas to move freely unless they are in danger.
- Create a koala safe backyard with pool and fence escapes, and keep dogs and cats properly restrained at night.
- Join the Redlands Coast Koala Watch and record sightings.
Source: Redland City Council
