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Problems caused by koalas | FF0020 |
Ian Temby, Flora and Fauna Branch
September, 2003 |  |
Problem
Defoliation of food trees. Appearance of wandering Koalas in urban or other inappropriate areas.
Background
Koalas released into limited areas of suitable habitat will, in time, occupy that habitat fully as their population expands. Severe defoliation or death of trees can result as the population increases further. Koalas should be relocated before 50% of trees of the preferred species show significant depletion of crown foliage. Koala populations free of disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia can double their numbers every two to three years. Individual Koalas may wander over considerable distances and appear in unexpected places.
Solution
If you are aware of areas where you believe that defoliation of Koala food trees is occurring as a result of too many Koalas (or not enough food trees), contact the local office of DSE, where officers will be able to determine an appropriate course of action.
Place collars around particular trees on your property, if appropriate, to prevent continued defoliation. Collars need to be 1.5 m in height and at least 0.6 m in diameter, since Koalas can get their forearms around and climb guards of lesser diameter.
Keep dogs under control to prevent attacks on wandering Koalas.
Individual Koalas that have appeared in urban areas or isolated farm trees, may only be relocated with DSE approval and under DSE supervision.
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