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Koala spotted crossing the road near Queanbeyan

Media release: 28 June 2016

Koala spotted crossing the road near Queanbeyan

Koalas have been spotted crossing Captains Flat Road in Cuumbeun Nature Reserve this month delighting passing motorists but also serving as a reminder to slow down on the roads.

Susannah Power from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) said the first sighting was reported by a member of the public on 30 May and since then NPWS have received details of two more sightings in the reserve just east of Queanbeyan.

"Some passing motorists have been extremely lucky to get photos of the animal as it crosses the road, climbs the embankment and up a nearby tree," said Ms Power.

"We're not sure if this particular animal is male or female but we know it's rare and very exciting to see a koala in the reserve.

"These sightings are really encouraging and I'm sure they have taken many drivers by surprise - but they also serve as a real reminder to slow down on rural roads.

"With wildlife about it's important for people passing through to take care and for park visitors to minimise their impact on this species habitat.

"The increased number of sightings also highlights the importance of this relatively small reserve in providing habitat for this iconic species," said Ms Power.

NPWS plan to undertake surveys at Cuumbean in the coming months to get a much better picture of the population this reserve supports.

"Until then we encourage people to keep reporting their sightings to the NPWS Queanbeyan Office and remind park users and motorists to please take care near the Reserve."

For more information on Cuumbeun Nature Reserve visit the NPWS website.

Photos for media: flickr.com/photos/nswnationalparks/albums/72157667294915583

Contact: Sarah Scroope

Page last updated: 28 June 2016