4 January 2007

Koala carers need leaf harvesters now

Koalas’ highly specialized dietary requirements become even more pronounced when they are sick. Several species of eucalyptus leaves need to be harvested daily.

Koalas eat about half a kilo of gum leaves each day, though they require at least five times that to pick from. Leaf harvesting for koalas in care is a daily task which requires knowledge and dedication. Koalas generally prefer a small number of eucalypt species from the range available. Typically they do not eat all these types throughout the year. Seasonal issues play a major role and so do individual preferences.

Friends of the Koala presently has 21 koalas in care, four of which are at the Koala Care Centre in East Lismore. President, Lorraine Vass says “Quality leaf provision is probably the most important aspect of successfully rehabilitating koalas for release back into the wild. It needs considerable liaison between the carer and leaf harvester. The carer observes which variety or varieties each animal prefers at any given time. Leaf harvesters must be able to provide a desirable menu. Swamp Mahogany is undoubtedly flavour of the month at present.”

Absences through the Summer holidays puts a strain on the Koala Care Centre’s leaf harvesting roster. Friends of the Koala is looking for people who would like to be trained in leaf harvesting immediately. The task requires approximately two hours a week

Leaf Co-ordinator, Rick Stewart says “Leaf collection is part and parcel of caring for koalas. It must be done well come hail or shine and there is nothing more gratifying than watching those little guys tuck in. They really get stuck in to good leaf. You know when you have done your job well.”

Friends of the Koala’s first training day for 2007 will be held on Sunday 11 February.

Enquiries phone the Friends of the Koala Rescue Hotline 6622 1233.