What a special and fascinating day visiting Koala Life with director Dr Chris West and head Cleland Koala keeper Cassie. Koala populations in eastern Australia are threatened by habitat loss due to land clearing, the impacts of climate change such as fire, diseases and pests. Koala Life is involved in very important research to protect this iconic Australian animal and is undertaking a breeding program to ensure their long-term survival. These beautiful individuals were rescued from Kangaroo Island following the bushfires and are unique because they are disease free. To increase hybrid vigour they have been cross bred with Koalas from Strzelecki Ranges in Victoria. Four joeys were born last March and are now thriving. Check out this video of little miss Pearl – a bit gorgeous! These Koalas are very well cared for and are kept securely away from other koalas to ensure they remain disease free. We felt very privileged to be let into the biosecurity area for a behind the scenes look! If there is interest, we will run this program again. Watch this space!
