Photo: Suppled.
FROM REDLAND CITY COUNCIL
It’s koala dispersal season on Redlands Coast – an essential rite of passage filled with both potential and peril.
This is the time when young koalas leave their mothers on a journey of independence, with many challenges along the way.
During dispersal, young koalas will travel long distances, crossing roads, yards and unfamiliar territories in search of a suitable home range. While exploring these new environments, they can become confused and stressed, leading to discomfort or health issues.
Sick koalas can display symptoms such as red, swollen or crusty eyes, fur loss, matted fur and wet, brown-stained rumps. They often sit on the ground or at low heights, sometimes remaining in the same spot for several days without moving. A koala that appears unresponsive on the ground requires immediate attention.
If a koala is admitted to care in the early stages of illness, there is usually an excellent chance of successful treatment and release back into the wild.
Moving through an urban landscape makes young koalas also vulnerable to injury. Some injuries, such as dog bites, may not be immediately apparent. Look for wet, matted fur from dog saliva and puncture marks. Because koalas have very little fat beneath their skin, their internal organs can be easily punctured.
If you spot a koala that appears sick or injured, contact the Redlands 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service on 3833 4031. The wildlife volunteers have the training and resources to assess the koala and provide the necessary care.
Place an overturned laundry basket or box over a sick koala to prevent it from wandering off or climbing a tree. This will keep you and the koala safe and make it easier for the wildlife volunteer to collect the koala.
Together, let’s keep a watchful eye on our young travellers and help them make a life for themselves.
