Koala spotting across the region to help protect habitat

Residents are being asked to be on the lookout for koalas as part of a mapping study to help understand koala populations and their habitat in the region.

And with the koala breeding season set to start next month, chances of spotting one of these usually shy creatures will increase over the next few months.

Sunshine Coast Council Environment Portfolio holder, Councillor Keryn Jones said koalas are listed as a ‘vulnerable’ species in the South East Queensland Bio-region, and in order to better protect their habitat and population, Council is calling on residents to help continue its Koala Habitat Survey and Habitat Mapping project.

“This project is a continuation and an expansion of the ongoing project initiated by the former Caloundra City Council last year.

“While council had great feedback from Caloundra residents with more than 50 sightings reported last spring and summer, we are now calling on residents throughout the region to be on the lookout for koalas and hopefully help us gain a better understanding of population dynamics and habitat areas throughout the Sunshine Coast,” Cr Jones said.

“Specific details such as the date, time and location of the sighting, as well as the number and size of the koalas are particularly important.

“However, other information such as the koala’s activity such as sleeping, feeding etc and how long they had been in the location is also useful.”

The koala spotting initiative is part of a larger project to ensure the longevity of the species on the Coast.

“Council is hoping to see the mapping initiative extend across the Coast with this renewed call to report your koala sightings.”

To report a koala sighting contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 5420 8200.