Tidbinbilla's koala population boosted by another six arrivals

The Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve ihas recently welcomed another six new koalas from the Otway Ranges in Victoria.

Explaining the introduction of the animals, ACT National Parks and Catchments Manager of Regional Operations Brett McNamara stated "three female koalas and their three joeys - two females and one male - have joined the eight koalas that were released into Tidbinbilla's Eucalypt Forest in November 2013.

"The three mums walked out of their carry crates and quickly scanned the environment before climbing up the closest tree with their young on back to take in the beautiful views and explore the selection of eucalypts on offer.

"At the moment the koalas are making themselves comfortable in their new home, and if they settle in as well as the previous new arrivals we will be very happy.

"Over 1,650 people came to see the first group of koalas in November alone, and visitors that have returned to see them two or three times have commented on the joeys' growth and development.

"They are spending more and more time away from their mums going in search of their favourite eucalypt flavours and the trees with the best branches to perch on.

"The public can come to Tidbinbilla and encounter these unique marsupials in their natural environment, with volunteer interpreters from Conservation Volunteers Australia on hand ... on weekends to take you through the forest.

"If you're lucky you may be able to spot all 16 of the koalas, but you may have to bring some family members or friends to help you out."

McNamara added that Tidbinbilla also manages highly successful breeding programs for the critically endangered Northern Corroboree Frog and the Southern Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby.

He concluded "in the wild these species are endangered but, with the success of Tidbinbilla's captive breeding program, the ACT is playing a significant and leading part in their re-establishment.

"While out at Tidbinbilla, make sure you drop into the Visitor Centre to see the Northern Corroboree Frogs and stop by The Sanctuary to see if you can catch a glimpse of a Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby."

For more information go to www.tidbinbilla.com.au/

30th April 2012 - KOALAS TO BE LISTED AS THREATENED AMID RAPID DECLINE

28th September 2011 - KOALA INQUIRY CALLS FOR VULNERABLE STATUS