Tracking Koalas and Creating Koala Safe Havens
In a remarkable collaboration with the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Detection Dogs for Conservation program, Redland City Council is taking strides to protect urban koalas on the Redlands Coast.
Since 2018, the Council has invested $195,000 annually, utilising highly trained koala tracking dogs to detect and safeguard these iconic marsupials.
The Council’s commitment to koala conservation goes beyond rhetoric. The dogs, with their exceptional ability to locate fresh koala scats, assist researchers in DNA analysis, health assessments, and even tagging ambassador koalas.
A Canine Partnership for Koala Conservation
Mayor Karen Williams‘ enthusiasm for the program, highlights the integral role of these remarkable dogs in supporting koala health initiatives.
The University of the Sunshine Coast’s cutting-edge technology, coupled with the tracking dogs, has provided invaluable insights into the genetics and disease management of local koala populations.
Dogs on Duty – More Than Just Furry Faces
The University of the Sunshine Coast, in collaboration with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), is on the lookout for a new canine recruit to join their specialised team of conservation heroes.
Driven by a win-win ethos, this search aims to provide a rescued dog with a new lease on life while contributing to the ongoing research and rescue efforts for koalas, especially after the devastating 2019 fires.
Since 2015, the Detection Dogs for Conservation program has been pivotal in post-fire recovery surveys and understanding the impacts of fire on koalas.
As the fire season approaches, the quest for a new canine companion intensifies, seeking a dog with specific qualities: a playful spirit, toy obsession, non-aggressiveness, and an unwavering focus on humans.
From Rescues to Rescuers – A Call to Canine Heroes
Dr. Romane Cristescu, Director of UniSC‘s Detection Dogs for Conservation, emphasises the importance of specific qualities in potential candidates.
The community, especially the working dog rescue community, is invited to participate in the search, ensuring the next hero is as exceptional as Bear, the globally celebrated koala detection dog.
In the quest to protect koalas, these dogs aren’t just playmates; they are indispensable allies in a conservation journey that Redland City proudly leads.
