Rescuing Koalas

Koalas mainly come into care if they are:

1. orphaned,
2. injured, or
3. have symptoms of disease, especially Chlamydia.

 

Rescuing an Orphaned Joey

• If you see an orphaned koala joey, have a good look around for the mother.  The mother may have been killed nearby.  It is rare for a dependent joey to be wandering around by itself.
• If you find the mother and she is deceased, capture and contain the joey.  Wrap it in a blanket, towel or jumper to keep it calm and snug.  Call a wildlife carer or take the joey to the vet.
• If you find the mother and she is alive and well, be wary.  She will be wanting to protect her joey.  
• Reunite mother and joey, and then quickly retreat to see if the mother will accept the joey.  
• If the mother accepts the joey and climbs a tree, all is well. 
• If the mother does not accept the joey, wait until a suitable time to capture and contain the joey as explained above.

 

Rescuing an Adult Koala

• If you find the mother and she is sick or injured, or if you find a male koala that is sick or injured, only approach the animal if you think you are physically strong enough to handle the animal. 
• Use a sack, blanket or towel to scoop up the animal and place it in a sturdy box, basket or animal carrier that is able to be covered.  
• Move the animal to a safe, dark, quiet, warm place away from animals and children until help arrives.
• Otherwise do not approach the animal or attempt to physically handle the koala yourself. Koalas have very sharp claws and teeth and they will struggle.
• Instead, place a sturdy box or washing basket over the animal and anchor it by placing something heavy on the top.  Immediately call a wildlife carer for assistance.

 

Koalas with Chlamydia

• Chlamydia symptoms on the head include discharge from the eyes, ears, or mouth.
• Chlamydia symptoms elsewhere include a wet or dirty bottom.
• Koalas with Chlamydia can be successfully treated with antibiotics if carers are able to capture and contain the koala.
• If the koala is still up a tree, and you notice the symptoms of Chlaymidia, call a wildlife carer for advice and assistance to get the animal down.
• If the koala is on the ground and requires care, see if you can get close enough to place a box or basket over the koala to stop it from moving as described above.
• Once contained, contact a wildlife carer.

 

 

 

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