KOALAS
​The koala (Phasclarctos Cinereusis) is related to the kangaroo and the koala's closest living relative is the wombat. Koala are listed as vulnerable to extinction in New South Wales. Only authorised and experiences persons with appropriate training, facilities and access to food trees, are permitted to handle Koalas.

Common Problems
 Threats to koalas include:
  • Habitat loss and degradation 
  • Land clearing / urban development
  • Disease, such as Chlamydia
  • Bushfires
  • Road accidents
  • Predation by dogs
  • Extreme weather events
What To Do
If you find a sick or injured Koala: 
  • Do not put yourself in danger (watch out for traffic)
  • If possible, phone a wildlife carer as soon as possible
  • Only handle the Koala if it is necessary for it's safety. Koalas can inflict painful wounds, so be careful.
  • Stop traffic if necessary & approach quietly from behind, placing a blanket, towel or box over Koala's head & arms.
  • Keep the Koala warm, dark and quiet, and away from pets and people.
  • Do not give the Koala food or drink.
Koala Joeys
  • Koalas have a pouch. If you find a Koala that has recently died, check the pouch and nearby area in case a joey has survived.
  • If the joey is attached to the teat, do not remove it. Take the dead mother and joey to a vet,or carer as soon as possible.
  • If it is not attached, gently remove it from the pouch and wrap in a towel or cloth. Keep it warm (under your jumper or use a warm hot water bottle) so you do not overheat the joey. 
Symptoms of common ailments
  • Puffy or inflamed eyes
  • Dribbling saliva from the mouth;
  • Wet or matted fur;
  • A messy / brown "bottom"
  • Remains on the ground or low in a tree
  • Not moving when approached
  • Unable to use all limbs while walking or climbing
  • Thin, emaciated appearance;
  • Signs of trauma (blood. visible wounds etc)​
Picture
© WRSC Wendy McFarlane
More Information
  • It is illegal to catch, transport or interfere with a Koala unless it is in distress and in need of human assistance. If in doubt, contact your local carer, wildlife group or the National Parks & Wildlife Service.
  • Any wildlife that has been attacked by a cat or dog should be treated by a vet as wounds from dogs and cats can become infected and the animal might die from an easily treatable injury.
  • Always tell a vet or wildlife carer exactly where you find an injured animal

Want to know more?

Koalas are (arguably) Australia's most iconic animal, known throughout the world. They are truly unique and have a special "cuteness" factor that sees them loved around the world. Yet here in NSW they are slowly losing a battle aganst human development, and need our protection. Here are some great websites for everything Koala!
This page last updated August 2019