General News
21 February, 2025
Furry friend pays a visit
ONE resident got a bit of a surprise when they had a furry invader on their property on Tuesday.
A koala was spotted on Manifold Street around 3.25pm, before it made its way behind some units on Little Manifold Street and climbed into the resident’s yard.
Mosswood Wildlife manager Tracey Wilson said it was important for residents to keep their distance if they encounter a koala on the street.
“If they see one in a place it shouldn’t be, stand back – if there are any trees around, make sure it gets to a tree safely,” she said.
“Tie up dogs and keep pets restrained.
“If it’s in your backyard let it get to safety.
“If it’s injured, call Wildlife Victoria,.
“If it’s been hit by a car and you cannot stay on site until someone gets there to help, mark the tree or in front of the tree with rocks or a plastic bag.”
The koala was left to its devices once it entered the backyard and climbed a tree.
Ms Wilson said the increase of sightings could be a result of the winding down of koala breeding season in Victoria, or it could be environmental factors such as tree clearing or a nearby development clearing habitat.
She reminded residents to record koala sightings on the Mosswood Wildlife Koala Spotting Map, which was launched in 2023 as a means of keeping track of koala sightings in the area.
To record a koala sighting, visit http://mosswoodwildlife.org.au/koala-spotting-map/.
Ms Wilson advised residents to keep an eye on their dogs, with cars and dogs posing the biggest threat to koalas when moving between trees.
“On really hot days, please leave out bowls of water – on really stinking hot days, everything wants to drink water,” she said.
To report a sick, injured or dead animal, contact Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300 or report online at www.wildlifevictoria.org.au/report-a-wildlife-emergency.
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