The Australian Reptile Park’s world famous koala, Elsa, has had her first joey emerge from the pouch.
The fluffy bundle of joy is the first to emerge from the pouch for this year’s koala breeding season at the Park.
Elsa melted hearts all over the world in 2019 when she first made her debut into the world.
In a tough start to life, she was hand raised by Keeper Hayley Shute to ensure she was going to survive as her mother Irene was unable to produce milk.
Videos of the fluffy koala were seen over 15 million times.
Shute said seeing the joey emerge made her emotional.
“Elsa has spread so much joy to everyone all over the world but most importantly has raised awareness for koalas as a species in peril that needs our help now more than ever,” she said.
“Koalas are (predicted) to be extinct by 2050 and we need all of the help we can get protecting these amazing animals.
“We know Elsa has made an impact on people and we love sharing her story with the world.”
Elsa lives in one of the many koala yards at the Park and is frequently spotted by visitors either enjoying a deep sleep or eating some fresh leaves for lunch.
Visitors will now be able to see Elsa and her joey cuddling.
The Australian Reptile Park continues to breed koalas in an effort to help boost population numbers for the endangered species and educate Australians.
Primary source: Media release, Jul 8, 2022, Australian Reptile Park