TREE FELLING TAKES TOLL ON KOALAS

KOALAS in the eastern suburbs of Adelaide are dying in increasing numbers due to a rapidly shrinking tree canopy.

Fauna Rescue SA last week alone recorded 12 koala deaths across Adelaide, prompting Burnside Council to call for a report on how the animals can be better protected.

Fauna Rescue SA volunteer Merridy Montarello was glad to hear the council was taking control of the issue, saying land subdivisions were robbing the region of trees and, subsequently, wildlife.

“We are losing so many koalas,” Mrs Montarello said.

“We have had 12 hit by a car this week. With fewer trees, they’re on the move looking for food.

“Before you know it, they’ll be gone. In the blink of an eye.”

In a deputation to last week’s council meeting, Kensington Park resident Angela Ridge also warned the region’s “urban forest” was “at risk”.

“They (trees) are irreplaceable, but they are being replaced every year with buildings and pools and paving,” Mrs Ridge said.

“We must work harder to support trees which koalas use as a home.”

Picture: BIANCA DE MARCHI Fauna Rescue of South Australia volunteer Merridy Montarello with rescued koalas Frank and Fish. Mrs Montarello says 12 koalas were killed in Adelaide last week.