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Count A Koala 2004

Have you ever wondered how many koalas there are in South Gippsland?

By South Gippsland Shire Council - 5th November 2004 - Back to News

We glimpse them in our headlights and occasionally in broad daylight, and we hear them fighting off competing males in the mating season, but most of us would have no idea about how many there actually are.

But you can help us find out, by participating in the 2004 Koala Count on Sunday 21 November. The information gained from the count will be used to monitor koala numbers and assist in their management in the Shire. And it’s a pleasant excuse for taking a walk in the bush, relaxing and gazing skyward!

All you need to do is collect a survey form from the Council Reception or phone 5662 9267 to have one sent out. The form can also be downloaded from:

Then note any sightings in town or in the country between dawn and 2pm, listing them on the survey form.

Thirteen Victorian councils including metropolitan councils are participating in this year’s Koala Count. Koalas are moving into the suburbs and towns and strategies need to be established to manage them.

What to do if you a have a koala in your yard?

• Please do not attempt to handle a koala, they are not as cuddly as they appear.
• Koalas are stressed easily by dogs. Please put any dogs in the house or garage until the koala has left- usually overnight. Koalas have been known to inflict nasty wounds on dogs.
• Alert your neighbours that a koala is present and ask them to restrain their dogs. Dog attacks account for 2000 koala deaths per year Australia wide.
• If practical, place a plank of wood securely from a tree to a fence: this can help a koala exit your yard without having to go on the ground.
• If your dog is barking please go and have a look. You may get a pleasant surprise – it might be a koala.
• Don’t force them to move on. They usually have a 4 – 6 week feeding circuit and will move on in a day or two. If they stay in the same spot for more than 3 days, then call for assistance as they may be disoriented or stressed.

If a koala is injured or needs relocating, phone Help for Wildlife on 0417 380 367 for assistance.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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