The Australian Reptile Park’s koala conservation breeding program has had another amazing year welcoming five new bundles of joy being bred in this year’s koala breeding season.
The adorable joeys are giving keepers and visitors alike much-needed boosts of serotonin when seen cuddling with their mumma (koala) bears.
Over the past few weeks, the mammals team at the Australian Reptile Park had seen tiny hands, feet and fluffy little ears popping out of the pouch, but it didn’t take long before they saw the cute joeys popping their heads out of the pouch and taking in the sights of their surroundings.
Then one brave joey made the move to fully emerge, marking the first full joey sighting of the season with keepers naming the six-month-old male joey Pedro.
With the five joeys confirmed so far for the season, there is potential for a few more joeys to add into the mix with some females who were paired later in the season showing signs of a growing pouch.
This could bring news of a record season once final numbers are confirmed in a few months’ time.
“With being devoted to saving this iconic Australian species, we always hope to have a successful breeding season here at the Park,” Life Sciences Manager Hayley Shute, the Park’s resident koala whisperer, said.
“With the arrival of these five fluffy bundles, and a few more on the way, it’s safe to say that we’ve had a successful year and couldn’t be happier.
“It’s becoming clear all over the world that koalas in Australia are under serious threat.
“Their habitat is disappearing at an unprecedented rate and koalas are estimated to be extinct by 2050.
“We really need all the help we can get protecting these amazing animals.”
Proud of being an active supporter of wildlife conservation, the Australian Reptile Park continues to breed their koalas to help boost population numbers for the endangered species and educate Australians about koalas.
Visitors to the Australian Reptile Park can get up close and personal with koalas, delving into the fascinating world of these iconic creatures.
Through immersive encounters and educational experiences, guests have the opportunity to learn about koala conservation challenges while gaining an intimate understanding of these remarkable animals.