Rare koala sightings in Dharug National Park
Two koalas have been spotted on night-vision cameras in the Dharug National Park, making them the first confirmed koala sightings in the area for decades.
“It’s always great news when we discover koalas in new areas,” NSW Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton said.
“We use remote cameras in Dharug National Park for monitoring and this is the first time we’ve seen a koala on camera.”
The two sightings were recorded in August and September.
National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Sarah Brookes said she had worked in the Park for over twenty years and never spotted a koala.
“A neighbouring land owner has also shared an audio recording with us which we were able to identify as the call of a female koala,” she said.
“This time of year marks the mating season for koalas which begins in August and lasts until February. This is a time of increased movement for koalas as they leave their trees and disperse, running the risk of crossing paths with cars and dogs.
“If you see a koala in the wild, please leave it alone and provide us with details of where you saw it so it can be recorded.”
Park visitors are urged to report any koala sightings to the local NPWS office on 4320 4200.
Report injured koalas to WIRES or WildlifeArc.
NSW Government Koala conservation projects across the state will receive another $800,000 as part of this year’s NSW Government budget.
Slide controls:
