There’s a ‘beary’ encouraging report about a koala population in a small pocket of the hinterland.
A thermal drone survey has confirmed that Reesville, west of Maleny, is one of the most densely populated koala habitats in the northern part of South-East Queensland.
The survey detected 51 koalas stretched across just under 100 hectares of private land.
The surprise result significantly surpassed previous regional estimates, which ranged from zero to 22 koalas per 100 hectares.
The discovery was thanks to a collaboration between local landholders, the University of the Sunshine Coast, the University of Queensland Koala Ecology Group and Sunshine Coast Council.
Detection Dogs for Conservation director and UniSC senior research fellow Dr Romane Cristescu said the findings confirmed long-held suspicions about the ecological importance of the Reesville area.
“Our fabulous colleagues at UQ Koala Ecology Group, council and locals had warned us there was something really special about Reesville koalas – and we were not disappointed,” she said.
“When the survey’s results tallied 51 koalas, the highest density we found on the Sunshine Coast so far, the whole team was so excited.
“The community of Reesville is passionate about protecting their koalas so it makes sense there are quite a few koalas calling Reesville home – likely helped by good guardianship.”
Dr Cristescu said the findings also confirmed how important private land was to koala conservation.
“Recently we were called after local champions found and rescued a joey, who had to be rushed to the hospital thanks to the active local rescue group and supporters,” she said.
“It’s also heartwarming that there are many habitat restoration actions currently happening – keep up the great work Reesville, your koalas are very pleased with your support!”
Council’s team leader wildlife conservation Kate Hofmeister said the organisation had been actively supporting koala conservation efforts in Reesville for several years.
“This find cements Reesville as one of the most critical koala habitats in northern South-East Queensland,” she said.
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“Council is now in the final stages of securing additional grant funding to expand habitat restoration across surveyed private lands.
“We will also be installing permanent vehicle-activated signage to reduce koala-vehicle collisions and rolling out the ‘Leave It’ program to reduce dog-koala interactions – both funded by the Queensland Government.”
Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston acknowledged the role of local residents and rescue groups in protecting koalas, including the recent rescue of the joey.
“This is a fantastic outcome and these results are a testament to the dedication of the Reesville community and our conservation partners,” Cr Johnston said.
Koala breeding season is from now until February, which spells a time of increased movement for koalas as they look for love.
Coast residents are encouraged to drive slowly in koala habitat areas and report sightings of injured or diseased animals.
