What’s happening?
Last week, the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) introduced two new ‘Mum and Bub’ pairs to its Adoption Program.
The new additions are Kalari and her joey Priyanka from Paradise Country, and wild Koalas Casey and Pip, recently discovered during an AKF-led expedition.
Why it matters?
The AKF’s Adoption Program has been a cornerstone of Koala conservation for nearly 30 years, supporting efforts to protect Koalas and their habitats.
Funds from adoptions contribute to initiatives like the Koala Protection Act, a proposed legislation designed to ensure long-term survival for the species.
Local Impact
Highlighting both sanctuary-raised and wild Koalas, the AKF underscores the importance of maintaining natural habitats and engaging the community in conservation efforts.
By the Numbers:
- 30 years: The Adoption Program has supported Koala conservation since its inception.
- Kalari’s first joey, Mavis, born in 2021, is now available for individual adoption.
- The AKF continues its mission to push for the Koala Protection Act to ensure a secure future for Koalas in Australia.
Zoom In
Kalari has long been a favourite in the adoption program, first gaining popularity with her joey Mavis.
Her newest joey, Priyanka, was named after Hollywood star Priyanka Chopra, who visited earlier this year.
“Every adoption helps us in our mission to protect wild Koalas and their natural habitat. Right now, we want species-specific legislation; the Koala Protection Act which could give all Koalas in Australia a bright and steady future,” said Deborah Tabart OAM, the AKF’s Koala Woman.
The second pair, Casey and Pip, are a wild mother and joey discovered on a recent Koala spotting expedition.
“We were thrilled to find and observe Casey and Pip in their natural habitat. Casey was very alert and protective, holding Pip as close as possible, which wasn’t easy considering Pip appears to be quite a daring little thing, prone to running off up to taller branches with juicier leaves,” Tabart shared.
Zoom Out
The AKF Adoption Program has attracted global supporters, who receive updates on their adopted Koala and the foundation’s conservation work.
“We’re constantly receiving beautiful emails and letters from honourary adoption parents across the world who’ve gone to visit their Koala, and it never ceases to warm my heart,” added Tabart.
What to look for next?
Supporters can join the program to help drive the AKF’s conservation efforts and support legislation like the Koala Protection Act.
Learn more about the adoption process HERE.
