Koalas on the Move: Breeding Season is Here
Published on 11 September 2024
As we enter koala breeding season, Wingecarribee Shire Council is calling on community members to keep an eye out for koalas that are on the move.
The Southern Highlands is home to over 3,000 koalas, which inhabit 177, 000 hectares of native bushland.
From September to February, koalas become more active as they seek mates and establish new territories. You may also hear male koalas bellow to attract females and scare off other males.
Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Environment Officer for Koala and Private Land Conservation, Casey Taylor, said that everyone can contribute to koala conservation by staying aware and considerate during breeding season.
“Koalas are often spotted crossing roads that intersect koala habitat and are occasionally seen in more urban areas,” Casey said.
“Vehicle-strike is one of the many threats facing our local koala populations. Slowing down and being mindful of koalas and other wildlife can minimise this risk.
“By staying alert and reporting sightings, we can help ensure a healthy and sustainable future for the Southern Highlands' koala population,” she said.
If you see a koala, please report it to Council by calling 4868 0888. If you see a sick or injured-looking koala, or you accidently hit a koala while driving, call WIRES on 1300 094 737 or Wildlife Rescue South Coast on 0418 427 214.
Community members can show their support by becoming a Koala Club member. Koala Club members will receive a kit when they join with information on how to help local koalas, plus a dog lead, bin stickers, bumper stickers and more! Find out more and sign up at: https://www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/Environment/Get-Involved/Koala-Club.
Local families that are keen to improve their koala-spotting skills are encouraged to immerse themselves in our bushland reserves these School Holidays to learn how to look for signs of koalas.
For more information on Southern Highlands koalas, please visit https://www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/Environment/Environmental-Projects/Southern-Highlands-Koala-Conservation-Project or follow Southern Highlands Koalas on Facebook and Instagram.