Click here to adopt the Australian Koala Project
To learn more about our koala field project check out our conservation blog.
Zoo
Adoption Programs: Adopt A Project:
Australian Koala Project
The koala is a “flagship species” for habitat conservation; its tremendous popularity with people around the world can raise awareness and help protect the many plants and animals that share its scrubland eucalyptus habitat, habitat that is quickly disappearing under the pressures of human development. Researchers at CRES have long been dedicated to koala conservation and have made significant advances in understanding their biology through innovative studies involving the captive colony of 20 koalas at the San Diego Zoo. Researchers at CRES have characterized many of the physiological and behavioral factors that contribute to koala mating success through studies of hormones as well as scent and sound communication. They have also examined potential impacts of infectious diseases and have characterized the prevalence of detrimental traits such as albinism in the captive population. But there is so much more to learn!
CRES scientists are now designing an innovative field study focused on the reproduction and population ecology of koalas in their native habitat in Australia. CRES researchers are planning to outfit wild koalas with custom-made GPS (Global Positioning System) collars to allow them to follow individual koalas in the wild. This work will establish a solid scientific understanding of how foraging strategies influence reproductive success in nature and document factors that determine koala distribution and abundance throughout Australia. Here at the Zoo, this study will raise awareness about the plight of wild koalas and will help CRES researchers build a foundation with scientists in Australia, promoting future prospects for enhancing the genetic quality of the San Diego Zoo colony. This unique study will also allow CRES researchers to assist Australian scientists in the design and implementation of effective conservation management plans to protect this beloved marsupial.
Click here to adopt the Australian Koala Project.
