BAYSIDERS are being urged to keep a close eye out for young koalas as hundreds of adventurous youngsters begin leaving mum behind to venture into the suburbs in search of a new home.
The annual koala dispersal season, which runs from June to December, is one of the most dangerous times of the year for the iconic marsupials, with inexperienced juveniles forced to cross roads, backyards and neighbourhoods as they establish their own territory.
Redland City Council Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the annual movement of young koalas from June to December, known as dispersal season, was an important milestone for the local koala population.
“Dispersal season generally overlaps with breeding season, and young koalas typically head out on their own at about 18 months old, often when their mum’s next joey leaves the pouch,” Cr Talty said.
“This is a critical stage in their development, as each young koala that successfully settles helps to build a stronger, more resilient population.
“Dispersing koalas are often small and can be mistaken for lost joeys, but if they are about the size of a football or larger they are usually fine on their own.”
Residents are being warned to expect young koalas in unusual places over the coming months as they navigate the urban landscape.
Cr Talty encouraged everyone in the community to keep an eye out for young koalas as they moved through the urban environment, crossing roads, travelling through yards or resting in unfamiliar locations.
“Dispersing koalas can sometimes appear in surprising places, using a variety of tree species as well as fences or power poles if they feel threatened or unsafe,” Cr Talty said.
“It is also normal for koalas to rest low in trees or briefly on the ground, but if you are concerned a koala may be sick or injured, please call the Redlands 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service on 3833 4031.
“The community can help keep koalas safe during this active period by slowing down on roads, particularly between dusk and dawn.
“Driving wildlife safe means being alert, scanning the road ahead and the verges and watching for koalas, echidnas and possums that may be easier to miss than wallabies.
“For the sake of all of our local fauna it is also important to keep pets secured and safely contained at night, and to ensure yards are koala-friendly with fence and pool escape routes.”
Residents are also being encouraged to report koala sightings through the online Redlands Coast Koala Watch platform, with more information on Council initiatives to protect koalas available on the Council website.
