Plan to preserve Oz national treasure

Sydney – Australia yesterday unveiled a R320 million plan to help bring its koala population back from the brink, following a rapid decline in the furry marsupial’s fortunes.

The Australian Koala Foundation estimates there may be as few as 43 000 koalas left in the wild, down from a population believed to number more than 10 million prior to European settlement of the continent in 1788.

“Koalas are a national treasure,” said Gladys Berejiklian, premier of New South Wales state, in announcing her government’s conservation plan. “It would be such a shame if this nationally iconic marsupial did not have its future secured.”

Habitat loss, dog attacks, car strikes, climate change and disease have taken their toll on one of Australia’s most recognisable animals.

Studies show a 26% decline in the koala population in New South Wales over the last 15 to 20 years. The state lists the species as “vulnerable”, while in other parts of the country they are effectively extinct.

Under plan, thousands of hectares will be set aside to preserve the marsupial’s natural habitat.

Funds will be used to tackle diseases ravaging koala populations, including chlamydia. – AFP

Picture: AFP HI, THERE. Oxley Kaylee, a koala that lost an eye and had her left-hand leg amputated after being hit by a car, at the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie. Australia’s state of New South Wales yesterday unveiled a R320 million plan to help save koalas as...