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Details: Category: Health & welfare management

A 5-year Chlamydia vaccination programme could reverse disease-related koala population decline: Predictions from a mathematical model using field data

Craig, AP, Hanger, J, Loader, J, Ellis, WAH, Callaghan, J, Dexter, C, Jones, D, Beagley, KW, Timms, P & Wilson, DP 2014, Vaccine, vol. 32, pp. 4163-4170.

Chlamydia vaccines are being developed to mitigate the impact the disease has on koala populations. Stochastic individual-based mathematical modelling suggests targeting female koalas aged 1-2 years old with a vaccine with 75% efficacy administered to approximately 10% of koalas per year could initiate a reversal in current population declines over a 5-6 year period.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

A community-based survey of the koala Phascolarctos cinereus, in the Eden region of south-eastern New South Wales

Lunney, D, Esson, C, Moon, C, Ellis, M & Matthews, A 1997, Wildlife Research, vol. 24, pp. 111-128.

A community-based survey was carried out in cooperation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the Forestry Commission between 1991 and 1992 in the Eden region of south-eastern New South Wales (NSW). The survey revealed that koalas were very rare in the region and had been for at least four decades. Sighting records indicated that koalas were more commonly found in State Forests (54%) than in private tenures (38%) or National Parks and Nature Reserves (8%).

Details: Category: Habitat management

A few large roads or many small ones? How to accommodate growth in vehicle numbers to minimise impacts on wildlife

Rhodes, JR, Lunney, D, Callaghan, J & McAlpine, CA 2014, PLoS ONE, vol. 9, no. 3, e91093.

This study determined how koala mortality rates would be impacted by either increasing traffic volume on existing roads, or increasing the density of the road network in Port Stephens, New South Wales. This was done using simulation models of koala movement in combination with a model of the risk of mortality when crossing a road. The authors found that the effect of increased road network density on koala mortality was higher than the effect of increased traffic density on existing roads, although both effects caused the mortality of koalas to rise. The only time that increased traffic volume had a higher impact on koala mortality than increased road density was when road density was extremely low and traffic density was extremely high.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

A guide for ecologists: detecting the role of disease in faunal declines and managing population recovery

Preece, ND, Abell, SE, Grogan, L, Wayne, A, Skerratt, LF, van Oosterzee, P, Shima, AL, Daszak, P, Field, H, Reiss, A, Berger, L, Rymer, TL, Fisher, DO, Lawes. MJ, Laurance, SG, McCallum, H, Esson, C, & Epstein, JH, 2017, Biological Conservation, vol. 214, pp. 136-146.

Disease can drive population declines in many ways such as lowering reproductive success, direct mortality and altering population structure, dispersal and migratory patterns. Its role in driving population decline, however, has received little attention. The authors of the current study argue that its role in species decline is more important than has previously been appreciated. A disease investigation framework consisting of ten steps was developed, with the help of scientists from multiple disciplines. This enabled investigators with diverse knowledge and experience in epidemiology to address disease as a potential factor in population declines.

The ten steps of disease determination were formulated based on knowledge and experience gained from three case studies of significant population crashes. These case studies included amphibian chytridiomycosis, Tasmanian devil facial tumour disease, and the effect of introduced predators on the wild population of Rufous Bettong. The ten steps of disease determination are: 1) identify and clearly define outcome of interest, 2) verify that decline is real by incorporating the best understanding of species’ ecology and demography, 3) determine spatial, temporal and demographic characteristics which can potentially reveal likely causes of decline, 4) list all plausible hypotheses of threatening processes, risk factors and causes, 5) Determine risk factors by considering the association between the outcome of interest and host and environmental factors, 6) undertake health and pathological examinations to identify whether pathogens are present, 7) formulate a tentative diagnosis, 8) implement management actions, 9) use multiple competing hypotheses approach to evaluate the relative influence of each hypothesis, and lastly, 10) refine ongoing management through monitoring and adapting to new information.

Most studies of mammalian population declines that happen across Australia did not recognise disease as a cause. In the Action Plan for Australian Mammals, disease is the putative cause in fewer than 20% of declining species.

Therefore, the development of this framework will ensure that disease as a source is acknowledged, and in turn will maximise the cost-effectiveness of diagnosis and management. Apart from considering the role of disease in population crashes, the authors also emphasize the importance of collaboration between different responsible parties. The various sources utilized included wildlife management, epidemiologists, ecologists, and veterinarians in determining the causes of population decline and planning of management strategies.

Summarised by Cherie Chan

Disclaimer: The summary of this report is provided for reference purposes only and does not represent the findings or opinions contained in the original report. Although every effort has been made to bring forward the main elements of the report, this review is no substitute for the full the report itself. Should you have any concerns or perceive any errors please contact us and we shall endeavour to rectify and improve the review.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

A multi-subunit chlamydial vaccine induces antibody and cell-mediated immunity in immunised koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus): comparison of three different adjuvants

Carey, AJ, Timms, P, Rawlinson, G, Brumm, J, Nilsson, K, Harris, JM & Beagley, KW 2009, American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, vol. 63, no. 1, pp. 161-172.

An experimental vaccine against Chlamydia induced Chlamydia-specific cell-mediated and antibody responses in immunised koalas. Of three different adjuvants tested, each in combination with a selection of recombinant chlamydial antigens, one caused adverse reactions in immunised koalas and was therefore considered unsafe and removed from the experiment. The remaining two adjuvants had no adverse effects, and both resulted in long-term (270 days) neutralising antibody responses in plasma against the three antigens as well as Chlamydia-specific peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferative responses. In an artificial environment, plasma antibodies inhibited infections from two different species of Chlamydia, suggesting the approach trialled may be effective for combating chlamydial infections in koalas.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

A non-invasive tool for assessing pathogen prevalence in koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) populations: detection of Chlamydia pecorum and koala retrovirus (KoRV) DNA in genetic material sourced from scats

Wedrowicz, F, Saxton, T, Mosse, J, Wright, W & Hogan, FE 2016, Conservation Genetics Resources, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 511-521.

The major pathogens affecting koalas, Chlamydia pecorum and koala retrovirus (KoRV), can be reliably detected in DNA isolated from faecal samples.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Accuracy and efficiency of detection dogs: a powerful new tool for koala conservation and management

Cristescu, RH, Foley, E, Markula, A, Jackson, g, Jones, D & Frere, C 2015, Scientific Reports, vol. 5, no. 8349.

Koala scat detection dogs are a promising alternative to koala scat surveys by humans, as dogs’ strong olfactory abilities allow them to detect scats in circumstances under which a human typically cannot. This experimental study revealed that, due to their high efficiency and accuracy, koala scat detection dogs can reduce both the cost and time required to complete koala scat surveys and provide more accurate distribution and abundance data.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

An investigation into the similarities and differences governing the cryopreservation success of koala (Phascolarctos cinereus: goldfuss) and common wombat (Vombatus ursinus: shaw) spermatozoa

Johnston, SD, MacCalum, C, Blyde, D, McClean, R, Lisle, A & Holt, WV 2006, Cryobiology, vol. 53, no. 1, pp. 218-228.

Cryopreservation of spermatozoa is far less successful for koala sperm compared to the sperm of the closely-related common wombat. After thawing, the survival of spermatozoa was greatest when samples were frozen slowly in a 14% glycerol solution. Koala sperm also has low osmotic tolerance compared to that of the wombat. The authors aimed to determine the factors responsible for these differences in post-thaw survival in the two marsupials and predicted that the presence of the microfilamentous protein F-actin in koala spermatozoa might cause inflexibility in the sperm plasma membrane. As F-actin was not detected, however, it is suggested that some other factor may be responsible for the low success rates of koala sperm cryopreservation.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Antibiotics for the preservation of the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) semen

Johnston, SD, O’Boyle, D, Frost, AJ, McGowan, MR, Tribe, A & Higgins, D 1998, Australian Veterinary Journal, vol. 76, no. 5, pp. 334-338.

From samples of koala prepuce and ejaculate collected using electroejaculation and artificial vagina methods, a range of bacteria was identified in koala semen, predominantly of the Corynebacterium genus but of unknown species. The antibiotics penicillin G at a dose rate of 1000-2000 IU/mL, and gentamicin at a dose rate of 100 to 200 µg/mL, had no detrimental effects on sperm motility within a 24-hour incubation period. Furthermore, the antibiotics inhibited the growth of bacterial contaminants in the semen.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Antibody and cytokine responses of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) vaccinated with recombinant chlamydial major outer membrane protein (MOMP) with two different adjuvants

Khan, SA, Desclozeaux, M, Waugh, C, Hanger, J, Loader, J, Gerdts, V, Potter, A, Polkinghorne, A, Beagley, K & Timms, P 2016, PLoS ONE, vol. 11, no. 5, e0156094.

Two different adjuvants used in an anti-chlamydial recombinant major outer membrane protein (rMOMP) antigen-based vaccine for koalas both induced strong antigen-specific cellular responses and were equally able to produce Chlamydia pecorum-specific neutralising antibodies in vitro. The adjuvants differed in terms of the specificity of the MOMP epitope antibodies produced.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Antigenic specificity of a monovalent versus polyvalent MOMP based Chlamydia pecorum vaccine in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Kollipara, A, Wan, C, Rawlinson, G, Brumm, J, Nilsson, K, Polkinghorne, A, Beagley, K & Timms, P 2013, Vaccine, vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 1217-1223.

A comparison of two koala anti-chlamydial vaccines containing either one or multiple target antigens demonstrated that both were equally effective at eliciting a strong cell-mediated and humoral immune response. Both vaccines elicited similar results in terms of developing plasma antibodies, neutralising different strains of C. pecorum infections, and proliferating lymphocytes against different C. pecorum recombinant major outer membrane proteins (MOMPs) and whole chlamydial elementary bodies (EBs). These findings imply that it is possible to develop a vaccine that can offer suitable protection against a range of chlamydial strains.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Artificial insemination in the koala: the how and why

Johnston, SD & O’Callaghan, P 2001.

The first birth of a koala, and indeed a marsupial, as a result of artificial insemination (AI) occurred at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in 1998, and an additional five koalas were later confirmed to be born following AI. In this presentation, Johnston and O’Callaghan provide an overview of their many developments in establishing protocols and techniques for the successful production of young in captive koalas via AI.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Artificial insemination the koala: its role in conservation biology and impact on current wildlife legislation

O’Callaghan, P & Johnston, SD 1998, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

Assisted breeding technologies, and specifically artificial insemination, present exciting prospects for the management of both captive and wild koala populations. Artificial insemination techniques have been successfully applied in previous case studies with several eutherian species in captivity, but have only recently shown success in marsupial species.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Assessing the significance of endemic disease in conservation – koalas, chlamydia, and koala retrovirus as a case study

McCallum, H, Kerlin, DH, Ellis, W & Carrick, F 2017, Conservation Letters, e12425.

The value of disease management as a tool for biological conservation is often contested. The koala presents an ideal case study for examining this debate. Endemic diseases, most notably chlamydiosis and koala retrovirus (KoRV), are highly prevalent throughout koala populations. The extent to which disease contributes to population decline, however, is not agreed upon.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Assisted breeding technology for the conservation and propagation of Phascolarctos cinereus or how to make a koala pouch young

Johnston, SD, McGowan, MR & O’Callaghan, P 1999, Proceedings of the Postgraduate Committee in Veterinary Science, Sydney, pp. 199-217.

This report presents an overview of the scientific developments that have contributed to the early success of artificial insemination (AI) in the koala. In the AI process, there are three major hurdles to be overcome: (1) collecting, manipulating and preserving semen; (2) selecting a suitable time for insemination; and (3) depositing inseminate at a suitable site to increase the likelihood of conception. Johnston, McGowan and O’Callaghan share their insights regarding these challenges and present a rationale for the ex situ conservation of koalas via artificial breeding programs.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Atypical presentation of Cryptococcus neoformans in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): a magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography study

Martínez-Nevado, E, Alonso-Alegre, EG, Martínez, MÁ, Rodríguez-Álvaro, A, de Merlo, EM, García, JG & Real, IG 2017, Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, vol. 48, no. 1, pp. 250-254.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are valuable tools for diagnosing cryptococcosis in koalas as the techniques, used together, can assist in identifying the precise location and extent of a granuloma.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Birth of Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary following artificial insemination

Johnston, SD, McGowan, MR, O’Callaghan, P, Cox, R, Houlden, B, Haig, S & Taddeo, G 2003, International Zoo Yearbook, vol. 38, no. 1, pp. 160-172.

In May 1998, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary announced the birth of the first koala produced by artificially inducing ovulation and artificial insemination. The success of this procedure was a first not only for the koala, but any marsupial species. An additional five koalas were also confirmed to be produced by artificial insemination.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Can citizen science assist in determining koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) presence in a declining population?

Flower, E, Jones, D & Bernede, L 2016, Animals, vol. 6, no. 42.

A case study of citizen science projects designed to gather information about the national abundance of koalas revealed the valuable role of citizen science in influencing the conservation of the threatened species. The quantity and quality of data collected by citizen scientists did not only match those of traditional scientific research models, but also covered a much greater spatial scale.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Characterisation of CD4 T cells in healthy and diseased koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) using cell-type-specific monoclonal antibodies

Manger, C, Armitage, CW, Timms, P, Corcoran, LM & Beagley, KW 2016, Developmental and Comparative Immunology, vol. 60, no. 1, pp. 80-90.

An initial cell-type-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) for koalas has been developed. The anti-CD4 mAb is able to detect CD4⁺ T lymphocytes at various bodily sites using a range of analytical techniques. The mAb can also be used to detect vaccine-induced Chlamydia-specific CD4⁺ T cells in the peripheral blood mononuclear fragments of immunised koalas.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Characteristics of koala (Phascolarctos cinereus adustus) semen collected by artificial vagina

Johnston, SD, O’Callaghan, P, McGowan, MR & Phillips, NJ 1997, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, vol. 109, no. 1, pp. 319-323.

An artificial vagina is recommended as a simple, reliable and non-invasive method of semen collection from koalas in captivity. Out of 90 attempts, 40% resulted in collection of a complete ejaculate comprising a rubbery copulatory plug fraction and a sperm fraction with high motile spermatozoa content. No semen was collected in 38% of trials, while only partial ejaculates were collected in 14.5% of trials. Urine was detected in 4.5% of samples, and 3% of semen samples were collected after the koala’s ejaculation behaviour had ended.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Comparison of antigen detection and quantitative PCR in the detection of chlamydial infection in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Hanger, J, Loader, J, Wan, C, Beagley, KW, Timms, P & Polkinghorne, A 2013, The Veterinary Journal, vol. 195, no. 1, pp. 391-393.

Although an antigen detection method is less sensitive than quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in the detection of Chlamydia pecorum infection in koalas, the former technique is suitable for rapidly diagnosing active chlamydial infections.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Comparison of subcutaneous versus intranasal immunization of male koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) for induction of mucosal and systemic immunity against Chlamydia pecorum

Waugh, CA, Timms, P, Andrew, D, Rawlinson, G, Brumm, J, Nilsson, K & Beagley, KW 2015, Vaccine, vol. 33, no. 1, pp. 855-860.

An anti-chlamydial vaccine delivered either subcutaneously or intranasally elicited significant and long-term immune responses in immunised male koalas. The subcutaneous, or systemic, route of delivery elicited a stronger cell-mediated response than the intranasal, or mucosal, route, which induced a greater humoral response including at the mucosal sites where chlamydial infections begin.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Conservation conflicts over burning bush in south-eastern Australia

Morrison, DA, Buckney, RT, Bewick, BJ, & Cary, GJ 1996, Biological Conservation, vol. 76, pp. 167-175.

In fire-prone regions of south-eastern Australia, nature reserves and national park managers face conflicts between fire management practices for fire hazard reduction and biodiversity preservation. Accumulation of fuel load can reach a level that is sufficient to result in severe fires as little as two years after low-intensity fires in sclerophyll forests. At the same time, in order to preserve woodland and shrubland communities’ species composition and structure, an inter-fire interval period of at least seven years is required. The conflicting requirements for achieving these management objectives raise serious concerns.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Current trends and future directions in koala chlamydial disease research

Grogan, LF, Ellis, W, Jones, D, Hero, J, Kerlin, DH & McCallum, H 2017, Biological Conservation, vol. 215, no. 1, pp. 179-188.

A review of nearly five decades of peer-reviewed publications about koala chlamydiosis has revealed a significant gap in the research regarding studies of the disease at the population level. Such studies will be necessary in the future to inform conservation policies and programs for declining koala populations.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Cutting the carnage: wildlife usage of road culverts in north-eastern New South Wales

Taylor, BD, & Goldingay, RL 2003, Wildlife Research, vol. 30, pp. 529-537.

Culverts may allow animals to move safely between two habitats that have been separated by a road or other linear infrastructure. Culverts installed along the Brunswick Heads section of the Pacific Highway in New South Wales provide safe passage for local wildlife, most frequently wallabies, bandicoots and rodents. Surveys also detected the use of culverts by arboreal mammals such as koalas and possums. In contrast, frogs and reptiles experience less benefit from culverts than other animals as exclusion fencing is ineffective for funnelling small-bodied animals into the culvert. Additionally, vegetation structure in and around culverts seems to influence whether or not an animal uses a culvert structure.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Daylight saving time can decrease the frequency of wildlife-vehicle collisions

Ellis, WA, FitzGibbon, SI, Barth, BJ, Niehaus, AC, David, GK, Taylor, BD, Matsushige, H, Melzer, A, Bercovitch, FB, Carrick, F, Jones, DN, Dexter, C, Gillett, A, Predavec, M, Lunney, D & Wilson, RS 2016, Biology Letters, vol. 12, 20160632.

This study explores the benefits of implementing daylight saving time (DST) in Queensland to alter the timing of commuter traffic relative to nocturnal animal movement. Wild koalas in southeast Queensland were tracked and road crossings monitored then applied to a mathematical model. The model showed that DST could decrease collision rates by 8% on weekdays and 11% on weekends.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Designing food and habitat trees for urban koalas: tree height, foliage palatability and clonal propagation of Eucalyptus kabiana

Truman, SJ, McMahon, TV, Grant, EL, Walton, DA, Theilemann, PH, McKinnon, AJ & Wallace, HM 2017, Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, vol. 27, pp. 196-202.

Common koala food trees, such as Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. camaldulensis and Corymbia intermedia, are unsuited for planting in urban areas as they are extremely tall and are regarded by many as hazardous. Eucalyptus kabiana, a threatened eucalypt species found naturally only on the Glasshouse Mountains, are much shorter trees. They are highly amenable to vegetative propagation and their foliage is palatable to koalas, highlighting the species’ great potential as food and habitat trees that can create movement corridors for koalas in urban settings.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Designing food and habitat trees for urban koalas: identifying short ecotypes of Corymbia intermedia

Trueman, SJ, McMahon, TV, Grant, EL, Walton, DA, Elliott, BB & Wallace, HM 2017, Australian Journal of Botany, vol. 65, no. 1, pp. 384-388.

A short variety of a preferred koala food tree, Corymbia intermedia or ‘pink bloodwood’, may provide suitable food and shelter for koalas in urban and peri-urban areas where taller eucalypts present unacceptable risks to people and infrastructure.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Detecting population declines over large areas with presence-absence, time-to-encounter, and count survey methods

Pollock, JF 2006, Conservation Biology, vol. 20, no. 3, pp. 882-892.

This study compared three types of fauna surveying methods; presence-absence, count, and time-to-encounter, to determine which would be most cost-effective for monitoring regional population declines. The results found that presence-absence surveys were often more powerful than count data surveys. Presence-absence surveys worked better than count surveys when; animal abundance did not vary hugely between sites, the organism was rare, and/or the species was difficult to detect so that the time spent at the site was greater than the time taken to travel there. Count surveys worked best in all other scenarios.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Detection of Chlamydia pneumoniae DNA and antigen in the circulating mononuclear cell fractions of humans and koalas

Bodetti, TJ & Timms, P 2000, Infection and Immunity, vol. 68, no. 1, pp. 2744-2747.

DNA and antigens of the common respiratory pathogen Chlamydia pneumoniae were found in the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) fractions of 30% of koalas from a sampled population at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. The presence of the pathogen in these cells confirms that C. pneumoniae can use PBMCs as a pathway for disseminating and subsequently infecting non-respiratory sites. A similar phenomenon was observed in the blood of human donors, suggesting that the dissemination of C. pneumoniae to non-respiratory sites is not unique in humans but rather is an inherent characteristic of the bacterium.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Development and field validation of a regional, management-scale habitat model: A koala Phascolarctos cinereus case study

Law, B, Caccamo, G, Roe, P, Truskinger, A, Brassil, T, Gonaslves, L, McConville, A & Stanton, M 2017, Ecology and Evolution, vol. 7, no. 1, pp. 7475-7489.

Predictive habitat suitability modelling based on environmental predictor variables can accurately identify areas of koala occupancy. Using the koala as a case study, the value of regional-level distribution modelling as a tool for conservation and land management in relation to threatened, rare or cryptic species is demonstrated.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

DNA fingerprint analysis of a free-range koala population

Timms, P, Kato, J, Maugeri, M & White, N 1993, Biochemical Genetics, vol. 31, no. 9/10, pp. 363-374.

This paper presents the first detailed genetic study of a large group of wild koalas in Queensland using the DNA fingerprinting technique.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

DNA profiling of Queensland koalas reveals sufficient variability for individual identification and parentage determination

Cocciolone, RA & Timms, P 1992, Wildlife Research, vol. 19, pp. 279-287.

DNA profiling of captive and free-range groups of koalas in Queensland detected genetic variation and differentiated between individuals using restriction enzymes (Msp I and Bam HI) and M13 probe. Specific DNA profiles were produced to identify individuals with an average genetic variation of 17%. These DNA profiles can be used for exploring genetic relatedness and social structure in both captive and wild populations of koalas.

Details: Category: Translocation

Effects of capture on haematological values and plasma cortisol levels of free-range koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Hajduk, P, Copland, MD & Schultz, DA 1992, Journal of Wildlife Diseases, vol. 28, no. 3, pp. 502-506.

Eight wild koalas were captured on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, placed in transport boxes, and then transported to the Adelaide Zoo by ferry and road. Blood samples were collected from these koalas at the time of their capture, and subsequently six hours, 24 hours and seven days following their capture. Significant differences in the following properties were observed between the samples: erythrocyte (red blood cell) number, haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, mean cell volumes, numbers of the white blood cell types leukocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes, as well as lymphocyte: neutrophil ratio. No significant differences could be found between sampling periods for the following properties: number of the white blood cell types monocytes and eosinophils, and plasma cortisol levels.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Effects of capture on haematological values and plasma cortisol levels of free-range koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Hajduk, P, Copland, MD & Schultz, DA 1992, Journal of Wildlife Diseases, vol. 28, no. 3, pp. 502-506.

Eight wild koalas were captured on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, placed in transport boxes, and then transported to the Adelaide Zoo by ferry and road. Blood samples were collected from these koalas at the time of their capture, and subsequently six hours, 24 hours and seven days following their capture. Significant differences in the following properties were observed between the samples: erythrocyte (red blood cell) number, haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, mean cell volumes, numbers of the white blood cell types leukocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes, as well as lymphocyte: neutrophil ratio. No significant differences could be found between sampling periods for the following properties: number of the white blood cell types monocytes and eosinophils, and plasma cortisol levels.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Emergency and critical care of koalas

Blanshard, W 1993, Proceedings from the Annual Conference of the Australian Veterinary Association, Gold Coast.

In this report, Blanshard draws upon her experience in the veterinary care of koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to describe how emergency and critical care protocols for koalas differ from those for other species. Blanshard details the physical and physiological characteristics of both healthy koalas and koalas with specific ailments in the context of the animal’s diet, behaviour, common conditions and appropriate health care.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Establishing a Eucalyptus plantation for koala food

O’Callaghan, P 1995, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

To be self-sufficient in providing food for koalas, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary established two plantation sites in 1988 and 1989. From a process of trial and error, plantation managers developed principles for best practice in establishing, maintaining and utilising Eucalyptus plantations.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Evaluation of line-transect sampling for estimating koala abundance in the Pine Rivers Shire, south-east Queensland

Dique, DS, de Villiers, DL & Preece, HJ 2003, Wildlife Research, vol. 30, pp. 127-133.

Using line-transect sampling to estimate koala density, this study quantifies the abundance of koalas in Pine Rivers Shire, Queensland. Initially, line- and strip-transect sampling were compared in a pilot survey, with both methods providing similar density estimates. Following this result, line transects were established in bushland sites throughout the Shire and 82 koalas were identified. After integrating total count data from urban areas, koala abundance was estimated at 4584.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Fecal glucocorticoid metabolite response of captive koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) to visitor encounters

Webster, K, Narayan, E & de Vos, N 2017, General and Comparative Endocrinology, vol. 244, pp. 157-163.

This study investigated the effect of visitor encounter experiences involving photography on the cortisol secretion response of captive koalas, which is an indicator of physiological stress. Overall, male koalas had higher mean faecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) concentrations compared to females. In male koalas the highest FCM concentrations were observed during an intensive photography treatment (as opposed to standard photography and control), whereas there was no apparent physiological response to photography regime observed in female koalas.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

First catch your koala! Use of a trap to capture koalas Phascolarctos cinereus for ecological studies

Hasegawa, M & Carrick, FN 1995, Australian Zoologist, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 68-70.

The trial of a new design of trap to capture koalas was detailed in this article. The trap stops a koala that has descended a tree from re-climbing the tree and keeps the animal in an enclosure until a field worker can recover it. The experiment serves as a proof of concept and efficacy, capturing nine koalas with a mean capture length of 1.9 days.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Genetic diversity of Chlamydia pecorum strains in wild koala locations across Australia and the implications for a recombinant C. pecorum major outer membrane protein based vaccine

Kollipara, A, Polkinghorne, A, Wan, C, Kanyoka, P, Hanger, J, Loader, J, Callaghan, J, Bell, A, Ellis, W, Fitzgibbon, S, Melzer, A, Beagley, K & Timms, P 2013, Veterinary Microbiology, vol. 167, pp. 513-522.

The genetic diversity of Chlamydia pecorum strains in koalas has limited the production of an effective cross-strain vaccine. By examining C. pecorum isolates from koalas across their range, the most common major outer membrane protein (MOMP) amino type F was suggested to be a prime candidate for recombinant C. pecorum vaccine development.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Humoral immune responses in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) either naturally infected with Chlamydia pecorum or following administration of a recombinant chlamydial major outer membrane protein vaccine

Khan, SA, Polkinghorne, A, Waugh, C, Hanger, J, Loader, J, Beagley, K & Timms, P 2016, Vaccine, vol. 34, no. 1, pp. 775-782.

Koalas that become infected with Chlamydia pecorum can produce a natural antibody response, but this response is not sufficient to adequately protect against the progression of the infection. Following immunisation with a recombinant chlamydial major outer membrane protein (rMOMP) vaccine, koalas exhibited a stronger humoral immune response to the infection than they were able to without the vaccine. Vaccinated koalas were also able to produce unique antibodies to epitopes, the parts of antigens that are recognised by the immune system, from non-vaccinated koalas. These unique antibodies effectively neutralised the C. pecorum bacterium in an artificial environment.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Improving habitat models and their utility in koala conservation

Cork, SJ, Hume, ID & Foley, WJ 2000, Conservation Biology, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 660-668.

Conservation efforts and decision-making for the protection of koalas are often dependent on sufficient koala habitat models, which identify geographic distributions of the species and show changes in habitat use in response to different variables over time. A review of models showed that there is a need to improve the accuracy and authority of such models for meaningful use in the decision-making process.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

In vitro activity of chloramphenicol, florfenicol and enrofloxacin against Chlamydia pecorum isolated from koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Black, LA, Higgins, DP & Govendir, M 2015, Australian Veterinary Journal, vol. 93, no. 11, pp. 420-423.

Chloramphenicol and florfenicol were more effective treatments for chlamydiosis in koalas during in vitro experiments than enrofloxacin. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were 0.25-0.50 μg/mL for enrofloxacin and 1-2 μg/mL for chloramphenicol and florfenicol. Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were also calculated to be within one two-fold dilution of the MICs.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Incorporating habitat mapping into practical koala conservation on private lands

Lunney, D, Matthews, A, Moon, C & Ferrier, S 2000, Conservation Biology, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 669-680.

Incorporating community and field surveys, this study mapped koala habitat in the Coffs Harbour shire at the scale required by planning authorities, with a focus on identifying remnant habitat on private land. Community survey respondents reported a total of 3309 koala sightings. Faecal pellet and field surveys were carried out at 119 sites, 37 (31%) of which had been used by koalas.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Individual variability in post-thaw sperm survival in a captive koala population

Zee, YP, Holt, WV, Nicolson, V, Pyne, M, Johnston, SD 2009, Cryobiology, vol. 59, no. 1, pp. 69-74.

The tolerance of koala sperm obtained using electroejaculation to cryopreservation exhibits considerable variation at an individual level, supporting the hypothesis that variation in post-thaw sperm viability exists in a population. Single koala spermatozoa samples obtained from 22 captive koalas revealed that sperm viability and quality differed less between individuals prior to the cryopreservation process than after. This suggests that cryo-tolerance and post-thaw viability are dependent upon individual biophysical sperm characteristics.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Integrating research using animal-borne telemetry with the needs of conservation management

McGowan, J, Beger, M, Lewison, RL, Harcourt, R, Campbell, H, Priest, M, Dwyer, RG, Lin, H, Lentini, P, Dudgeon, C, McMahon, C, Watts, M & Possingham, HP 2017, Journal of Applied Ecology, vol. 54, pp. 423-429.

Animal-borne telemetry, the tracking and recording of wildlife using radio or similar devices, has contributed extensively to studies of animal movement, demography and social structures. Although useful for collecting basic ecological data, the realities of the current conservation crisis mean that extensive telemetry studies are not always the most pragmatic, effective or viable use of time and resources. A framework is described here that allows researchers to determine whether and how animal-borne telemetry research can be applied for conservation purposes. The authors recommend that a value-of-information analysis be applied to assess whether or not animal telemetry studies are cost-efficient for informing conservation decision-making.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Is there an inherent conflict in managing wildfire for people and conservation?
Bentley, PD, & Penman, TD, 2017, International Journal of Wildland Fire, vol. 26, pp.455-468.

  Wildfire poses threats to both biodiversity and humans. Management of fire faces the dilemma of whether to prioritise focus on humans or wildlife. The current study developed a fire simulation model to investigate how both objectives can be achieved, and found that increased burning treatment area helps reduced fire extent and burn probability, though with increased monetary cost.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) captive husbandry guidelines

Jackson, S, Perry, L, O’Callaghan, P, Spittal, D, Romer, L & Reid, K 1999

These guidelines for the husbandry of koalas in captive populations represent the combined insights of keepers from Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Healesville Sanctuary, Taronga Zoo and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. The authors report on best practice principles in multiple aspects of the care and management of the species.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) captive husbandry guidelines

Jackson, S, Perry, L, O’Callaghan, P, Spittal, D, Romer, L & Reid, K 1999

These guidelines for the husbandry of koalas in captive populations represent the combined insights of keepers from Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Healesville Sanctuary, Taronga Zoo and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. The authors report on best practice principles in multiple aspects of the care and management of the species.

Details: Category: Translocation

Koala translocations and Chlamydia: Managing risk in the effort to conserve native species

Waugh, C, Hanger, J, Timms, P & Polkinghorne, A 2016, Biological Conservation, vol. 197, no. 1, pp. 247-253.

Despite becoming more commonly accepted as a ‘last-resort’ strategy for protecting at-risk animals, koala translocation may have a negative net impact upon the conservation of the species because of the associated risk of spreading chlamydial disease. In the context of recent scientific developments regarding the biology and epidemiology of Chlamydia pecorum infections in koalas, the authors of this report discuss the risks associated with koala translocations and potential management strategies for those risks.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Koala translocations and Chlamydia: Managing risk in the effort to conserve native species

Waugh, C, Hanger, J, Timms, P & Polkinghorne, A 2016, Biological Conservation, vol. 197, no. 1, pp. 247-253.

Despite becoming more commonly accepted as a ‘last-resort’ strategy for protecting at-risk animals, koala translocation may have a negative net impact upon the conservation of the species because of the associated risk of spreading chlamydial disease. In the context of recent scientific developments regarding the biology and epidemiology of Chlamydia pecorum infections in koalas, the authors of this report discuss the risks associated with koala translocations and potential management strategies for those risks.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Koalas continue to occupy their previous home-ranges after selective logging in Callitris-Eucalyptus forest

Kavanagh, RP, Stanton, MA, & Brassil, TE 2007, Wildlife Research, vol. 34, pp- 94-107.

Tree logging is one of the many processes that contribute to habitat loss for a variety of arboreal marsupials; however, sensitivity to logging may vary amongst different species. Koalas, for instance, do not require old trees for breeding or nesting as other arboreal marsupials do, but require certain tree species for food. The authors of this study investigated how selective logging affects the koalas in the Pilliga forests in north-western New South Wales, and found that tree preferences, home range sizes, home range overlap between individuals, movements, fidelity, fecundity and mortality of the koalas did not differ between logged and unlogged sites. These results suggest that selective logging does not necessarily adversely impact the conservation of koalas in the Pilliga forests.

Details: Category: Translocation

Koalas on Kangaroo Island: from introduction to pest status in less than a century

Masters, P, Duka, T, Berris, S & Moss, G 2004, Wildlife Research, vol. 31, pp. 267-272.

The rapid increase in koala numbers after 18 individuals were introduced to Kangaroo Island, South Australia in the 1920s necessitated the development of a management plan to control the expanding population. Estimates of population size based on surveys carried out in 1994 placed the population at around 5000 individuals. At the time of implementation of a sterilisation and relocation program in 1997, however, it became apparent that initial surveys had greatly underestimated population size and an accurate measurement of the current population was needed.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Koalas on Kangaroo Island: from introduction to pest status in less than a century

Masters, P, Duka, T, Berris, S & Moss, G 2004, Wildlife Research, vol. 31, pp. 267-272.

The rapid increase in koala numbers after 18 individuals were introduced to Kangaroo Island, South Australia in the 1920s necessitated the development of a management plan to control the expanding population. Estimates of population size based on surveys carried out in 1994 placed the population at around 5000 individuals. At the time of implementation of a sterilisation and relocation program in 1997, however, it became apparent that initial surveys had greatly underestimated population size and an accurate measurement of the current population was needed.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Modeling Species’ Distributions to Improve Conservation in Semiurban Landscapes: Koala Case Study

Rhodes, JR, Wiegand, T, McAlpine, CA, Callaghan, J, Lunney, D, Bowen, M & Possingham, HP 2006, Conservation Biology, vol. 20, no. 2, pp. 449-459.

Logistic regression models can be used to show the distribution of koalas in response to the quality of natural habitat and anthropogenic impacts, and consequently to predict changes in populations in response to these variables over time. Here, this modelling approach in combination with distribution mapping techniques showed that natural habitat availability was the most important factor determining koala presence; however, anthropogenic impacts are an increasing threat to the existence of koalas in some areas, particularly at a local scale.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Natural and artificial methods for inducing the luteal phase in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Johnston, SD, McGowan, MR, O’Callaghan, P, Cox, R & Nicolson, V 2000, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, vol. 120, no. 1, pp. 59-64.

A luteal or ovulation phase in the oestrous cycle of the female koala can be effectively induced by both the physical act of mating with a male or pharmacologically following a dose of the reproductive hormone human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG).

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Non-invasive evaluation of physiological stress in an iconic Australian marsupial: the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Narayan, EJ, Webster, K, Nicolson, V, Mucci, A & Hero, J 2013, General and Comparative Endocrinology, vol. 187, pp. 39-47.

In order to monitor physiological stress, the authors of this study used enzyme-immunoassay (EIA) to detect faecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) concentrations in both captive and wild koalas. An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge was used for biological validation of the FCM EIA. For captive koalas, sex, lactation status and handling status significantly affected FCM levels. Additionally, FCM levels did not differ significantly between wild and captive koalas.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Number of nearby visitors and noise level affect vigilance in captive koalas

Larsen, MJ, Sherwen, SL & Rault, J 2014, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, vol. 154, pp. 76-82.

Both proximity to and noise created by visitors to zoos and other facilities displaying captive koalas have been identified as causing increased vigilant behaviour of captive koalas. These findings have implications for the welfare management of captive koalas.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

One size does not fit all: Monitoring faecal glucocorticoid metabolites in marsupials

Fanson, KV, Best, EC, Bunce, A, Fanson, BG, Hogan, LA, Keeley, T, Narayan, EJ, Palme, R, Parrott, ML, Sharp, TM, Skogvold, K, Tuthill, L, Webster, KN & Bashaw, M 2017, General and Comparative Endocrinology, vol. 244, no. 1, pp. 146-156.

A comparison of five assays for monitoring adrenocortical activity in response to stress in thirteen marsupial species, including the koala, has shown that the suitability of assays varies greatly among species. This finding indicates that an effective assay for this purpose must be identified for each marsupial species individually.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Optimal physicochemical conditions for the manipulation and short-term preservation of koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) spermatozoa

Johnston, SD, McGowan, MR, Phillips, NJ & O’Callaghan, P 2000, Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, vol. 118, no. 1, pp. 273-281.

Under the same physical and chemical conditions in short-term liquid storage, koala spermatozoa respond similarly to eutherian mammal spermatozoa, except that koala spermatozoa are more resilient to exposure to rapid changes in temperature.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Post-fire survival and reproduction of rehabilitated and unburnt koalas

Lunney, D, Gresser, SM, Mahon, PS & Matthews, A 2004, Biological Conservation, vol. 120, pp. 567-575.

Comparisons of koalas rehabilitated after sustaining burn injuries following a fire event against uninjured koalas found no significant difference in post-release survival and reproductive success between the two groups, indicating human intervention and rehabilitation efforts can be beneficial to conservation efforts following fire.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Potential 'ecological traps' of restored landscapes: koalas Phascolarctos cinereus re-occupy a rehabilitated mine site

Cristescu, RH, Banks, PB, Carrick, FN & Frère, C 2013, PLoS ONE, vol. 8, no. 11, e80469.

The restoration of previously disturbed landscapes can provide suitable habitat for fauna. On North Stradbroke Island, koalas recolonised areas that were previously disturbed by mining activity in as little as six years post-rehabilitation. Rehabilitated sites possessed similar, if not better, vegetation quality and quantity to that of undisturbed areas. Most importantly, the fitness and reproductive output of the koalas residing within these rehabilitated areas were no different to those inhabiting undisturbed sites.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Prioritizing regions to conserve a specialist folivore: considering probability of occurrence, food resources, and climate change

Adams-Hosking, C, McAlpine, CA, Rhodes, JR, Moss, PT & Grantham, HS 2015, Conservation Letters, vol. 8, no. 3, pp. 162-170.

This study identified the implications of a changing climate for koala populations across eastern Australia, predicting changes in distribution for both the koala and its preferred food trees. Such information is integral in informing conservation decisions; in particular, the recognition of priority areas for planning efforts. Under a ‘business as usual’ climate model, priority areas for conservation were shown to shift significantly, in most cases outside of the species’ existing range.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Relationships between morphometric variables and age for captive individuals may not accurately estimate the age of free-ranging juvenile koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Tucker, GM, Clifton, ID & McKillup, SC 2012, Australian Journal of Zoology, vol. 60, no. 1, pp. 173-179.

The development and application of a model for determining the ages of free-ranging juvenile Queensland koalas based on morphometric variables suggests that similar models based on data obtained from captive animals may not be suitable for estimations of age of wild koalas.

Details: Category: Translocation

Response of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) to re-introduction to the wild after rehabilitation

Ellis, WAH, White, NA, Kunst, ND & Carrick, FN 1990, Australian Wildlife Research, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 421-426.

Four subadult koalas that received treatment for vehicle-related injuries over a two-month period were subsequently released back into the wild and their movements monitored using radio collars. The resident population of 30 koalas at the release site was also being monitored, allowing researchers to observe its response to the released individuals.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Seasonal reproduction in wild and captive male koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) populations in south-east Queensland

Allen, CD, de Villiers, DL, Manning, BD, Dique, DS, Burridge, M, Chafer, ML, Nicolson, VN, Jago, SC, McKinnon, AJ, Booth, RJ, McKee, JJ, Pyne, MJ, Peng Zee, Y, Lundie-Jenkins, G, Theilemann, P, Wilson, RJ, Carrick, FN & Johnston, SD 2010, Reproduction, Fertility and Development, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 695-709.

Male koalas exhibit seasonal changes in anatomical and physiological characteristics relating to fertility and reproduction. These seasonal variations have implications for artificial insemination (AI) programmes, as semen samples collected from wild koalas during winter appear to retain the highest quality after thawing from cryopreservation.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Semen-induced luteal phase and identification of a LH surge in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Johnston, SD, O’Callaghan, P, Nilsson, K, Tzipori, G & Curlewis, JD 2004, Society for Reproduction and Fertility, DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.00300

The successful induction of a luteal phase in female koalas following insemination and no other stimulus suggests that koala semen possesses characteristics able to induce ovulation.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Serological assessment of chlamydial infection in the koala by a slide EIA technique

Ueno, H, Mizuno, S, Takashima, I, Osawa, R, Blanshard, W, Timms, P, White, N & Hashimoto, N 1991, Australian Veterinary Journal, vol. 68, no. 12, pp. 393-396

A slide enzyme immunosorbent assay (EIA) that can reliably detect Chlamydia psittaci antibody in koala blood serum is described in this study, presenting a rapid, simple and reliable alternative to existing methods.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

Sperm membrane fatty acid composition in the Eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), and common wombat (Vombatus ursinus) and its relationship to cold shock injury and cryopreservation success

Miller, RR Jr, Sheffer, CJ, Cornett, CL, McClean, R, MacCallum, C & Johnston, SD 2004, Cryobiology, vol. 49, no. 1, pp. 137-148.

Koala cauda epididymidal spermatozoa have low membrane cholesterol levels and a high ratio of unsaturated/saturated membrane fatty acids compared to other studied species, including other marsupials. In particular, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid and the most predominant membrane fatty acid in the studied marsupial species, was found in high levels in koala spermatozoa and is thought to be related to its cryogenic tolerance.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Surgical implantation of temperature-sensitive transmitters and data-loggers to record body temperature in koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Adam, D, Johnston, SD, Beard, L, Nicholson, V, Lisle, A, Gaughan, J, Larkin, R, Theilemann, P, McKinnon, A & Ellis, W 2016, Australian Veterinary Journal, vol. 94, nos. 1-2, pp. 42-47.

With climate change predicted to influence the distribution of koala populations throughout Australia’s east coast, the individual responses of koalas to unsuitable temperatures may have important conservation implications. Accordingly, in this study, the suitability of temperature-sensitive intra-abdominal implants for tracking koala core body temperature was assessed. Findings were consistent across all koalas, revealing body temperatures ranging from 34.2﮿C to 37.7﮿C.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Targeted field testing of wildlife road-crossing structures: koalas and canopy rope-bridges

Goldingay, RL & Taylor, BD 2017, Australian Mammalogy, vol. 39, pp. 100-104.

Wildlife road-crossing structures aim to provide safe passage for wildlife movement and dispersal. A three-year targeted field test of canopy rope-bridges revealed that koalas did not utilise these structures to move between trees, instead travelling along the ground.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

The effects of gestagen implants on the behaviour of free-ranging female koalas

Hynes, EF, Handasyde, KA, Shaw, G & Renfree, MB 2011, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, vol. 134, pp. 209-216.

Population control in koalas can be achieved using hormonal contraception; however, hormonal changes can have unexpected effects on koala behaviour. Three groups of free-ranging female koalas were treated with either levonorgestrel implants, etonogestrel implants or control to evaluate fertility and effect on behavior. The most prominent behaviour observed was koalas travelling large distances of up to 11 kilometres. Koalas observed to travel these distances were those receiving levonorgestrel implants and with no dependent young.

Details: Category: Reproductive techniques

The immune response and fertility of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) immunised with porcine zonae pellucidae or recombinant brushtail possum ZP3 protein

Kitchener, AL, Kay, DJ, Walters, B, Menkhorst, P, McCartney, CA, Buist, JA, Mate, KE & Rodger, JC 2009, Journal of Reproductive Immunology, vol. 82, pp. 40-47.

Zona pellucida, a membrane that surrounds mammalian ova, was used to immunise koalas against pregnancy. Three treatments were applied: zona pellucida from pig (PZP), zona pellucida protein from brushtail possum (recBP-ZP3) and a control. In 29 koalas for which fertility after immunisation was evaluated, both PZP and recBP-ZP3 were found to raise antibodies in the koala, but only PZP was effective as contraception.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

The rescue and rehabilitation of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in southeast Queensland

Burton, E & Tribe, A 2016, Animals, vol. 6, no. 56.

Data from koalas admitted to four wildlife hospitals in southeast Queensland from 2009 to 2014 were analysed to determine how the treatment and rehabilitation of koalas could be improved. It was found that clinical outcomes varied considerably between hospitals, particularly in terms of time spent in care and euthanasia and release rates, and these findings have implications for the improvement koala rehabilitation practices.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

The spatial and temporal distribution of koala faecal pellets

Ellis, WAH, Sullivan, BJ, Lisle, A & Carrick, FN 1998, Wildlife Research, vol. 25, pp. 663-668.

Faecal pellet counting is a convenient tool to determine the habitat use of vertebrate species, and particularly how individual koalas utilise trees. This study investigates the relationship between koala activity and the temporal and spatial patterns of pellet production by koalas. The authors reported that koala pellet production was at its peak between 6pm and midnight, and that there was a significant relationship between the average length of time spent in a tree by a koala and the time of day at which the koala arrived in the tree.

Details: Category: Translocation

Translocation as a conservation strategy

Hellmann, JJ 2013, in Simon, AL (ed.), Encyclopedia of Biodiversity, vol. 7, Academic Press, Waltham, pp. 236-240.

Throughout history, humans have deliberately moved, or ‘translocated’, plants and animals from one location to another. Recently, translocation has emerged as both a tool for conserving species and, subsequently, a topic of scientific and moral debate. This chapter discusses how and why translocations occur, emerging themes in translocation, and the many risks involved with this conservation strategy.

Details: Category: Translocation

Translocation of overabundant species: implications for translocated individuals

Whisson, DA, Holland, GJ & Carlyon, K 2012, The Journal of Wildlife Management, vol. 76, no. 8, pp. 1661-1669.

Based on the outcomes of translocation of several koalas from a high-density population in south-eastern Australia to multiple release sites, it is evident that this management technique can have negative impacts on the health and welfare of translocated individuals.

Details: Category: Habitat management

Tree use by koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) after fire in remnant coastal forest

Matthews, A, Lunney, D, Gresser, S & Maitz, W 2007, Wildlife Research, vol. 34, pp. 84-93.

Resource depletion as a result of wildfire has a short-term impact on koala populations in remnant forests. The present study revealed that koala populations at Port Stephens in New South Wales returned to utilising burnt trees shortly after intense wildfires that occurred in 1994, and some koalas were even observed using burnt trees exclusively. Furthermore, the authors noticed differences in the preferences and uses of tree species between the sexes, breeding and non-breeding females, day time and night time, as well as between seasons.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and artificial intelligence revolutionising wildlife monitoring and conservation

Gonzalez, LF, Montes, GA, Puig, E, Johnson, S, Mengersen, K & Gaston, KJ 2016, Sensors, vol. 16, no. 97, s16010097.

This report describes a technique for automated wildlife detection using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) imagery that overcomes many of the challenges associated with ground-based monitoring techniques. In a trial of the technique, a system comprising an UAV equipped with thermal imagery sensors and video processing capabilities detected the presence and locations of koalas in a natural environment with remarkable accuracy to generate a reliable population estimate of the surveyed area.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Use of expert knowledge to elicit population trends for the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Adams-Hosking, C, McBride, MF, Baxter, G, Burgman, M, de Villiers, D, Kavanagh, R, Lawler, I, Lunney, D, Melzer, A, Menkhorst, P, Molsher, R, Moore, BD, Phalen, D, Rhodes, JR, Todd, C, Whisson, D & McAlpine, CA 2016, Diversity and Distributions, pp. 1-14.

Regional populations of koalas are continuing to change across Australia with evidence showing rapid declines, stable and growing populations. Despite the importance of understanding population trends for this threatened species, there are diverse opinions held by experts regarding koala abundance and, hence, the status of koala populations. Expert elicitation was used here as a method to derive estimates of koala populations and trends from a number of koala experts.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Use of quantitative real-time PCR to monitor the shedding and treatment of chlamydiae in the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Markey, B, Wan, C, Hanger, J, Phillips, C & Timms P 2007, Veterinary Microbiology, vol. 120, no. 1, pp. 334-342.

A quantitative real-time analysis revealed that antibiotic treatment for koalas with chlamydial infections caused chlamydiae to shed rapidly and in great numbers from both ocular and urogenital sites, with the majority of infections cleared after two weeks of treatment.

Details: Category: Surveying techniques

Using complementary remote detection methods for retrofitted eco-passages: a case study for monitoring individual koalas in south-east Queensland

Dexter, CE, Appleby, RG, Edgar, JP, Scott, J & Jones, DN 2016, Wildlife Research, vol. 43, no. 1, pp. 369-379.

This study employed a variety of techniques to monitor the use of infrastructure retrofitted to provide safe passage under or over roads by individual koalas. By doing so, researchers were able to better understand the roles that wildlife crossing structures might play in preventing wildlife-vehicle collisions and enhancing koala habitat and population connectivity.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Vaccination of healthy and diseased koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with a Chlamydia pecorum multi-subunit vaccine: Evaluation of immunity and pathology

Kollipara, A, George, C, Hanger, J, Loader, J, Polkinghorne, A, Beagley, K & Timms, P 2012, Vaccine, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 1875-1885.

A multi-subunit chlamydial vaccine has been developed that was safe for administering to both healthy and diseased koalas, and that produced strong antibody and lymphocyte proliferation responses.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Vaccination of koalas with a prototype chlamydial vaccine is safe, does not increase the incidence of lymphoma-related disease and maybe associated with increased lifespan in captive koalas

Hernandez-Sanchez, J, Brumm, J, Timms, P & Beagley, KW 2015, Vaccine, vol. 33, no. 1, pp. 4459-4463.

An experimental Chlamydia vaccination previously tested on a population of captive koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has been shown not to increase the incidence of neoplasias, and may also increase the lifespan of captive koalas. The median lifespan for koalas treated with the prototype vaccine was 12.5 years; 3.7 years longer than that of unvaccinated koalas. A comparison of vaccinated and unvaccinated koalas revealed that the vaccine did not increase the incidence of lymphoma or leukemia, and the vaccination is therefore considered safe for koalas.

Details: Category: Health & welfare management

Vaccination of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with a recombinant chlamydial major outer membrane protein adjuvanted with poly I:C, a host defense peptide and polyphosphazine, elicits strong and long lasting cellular and humoral immune responses

Khan, SA, Waugh, C, Rawlinson, G, Brumm, J, Nilsson, K, Gerdts, V, Potter, A, Polkinghorne, A, Beagley, K & Timms, P 2014, Vaccine, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.08/037

A single-dose Chlamydia vaccine induced significant and long-term cellular and humoral immune responses in six healthy female koalas. The vaccine was based on a three-component adjuvant consisting of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C), polyphosphazine (PCEP) and a host defence peptide (HDP), combined with the Chlamydia pecorum recombinant chlamydial major outer membrane protein (rMOMP) antigen. Koalas immunised with the vaccine exhibited strong mucosal antibody and C. pecorum-specific neutralising antibody responses in the plasma and at mucosal sites. The vaccine also caused the proliferation of lymphocytes responding specifically to both whole chlamydial elementary bodies and C. pecorum rMOMP protein.