Researchers have identified three koala hotspots on the urban fringe of Wollongong using thermal drone technology, revealing the area as a 'hidden stronghold' for the endangered marsupial. The study, published in Australian Mammalogy, found 56 koalas and 127 southern greater gliders across the Illawarra Escarpment over two years.
The most abundant sites near Wollongong suburbs are in bush behind Keiraville, the east side of Mount Keira, and Mount Kembla. The most populous areas overall lie above the escarpment in bushland between the Cordeaux and Cataract dams.
Lead author Jordyn Clough, a PhD candidate at the University of Wollongong, said thermal drones have revolutionised wildlife surveys. 'These results reveal that the forests south of Sydney are far more significant for conservation than previously recognised,' she said.
The project was a collaboration between the University of Wollongong and Symbio zoo, funded by Symbio and mining company GM3. The study area includes part of GM3's Dendrobium mine lease.
Symbio's Kevin Fallon, senior business manager and chief drone pilot, said the research provides crucial baseline data for future monitoring. 'Especially now, following on from fires, floods, and threats of Chlamydia encroaching these important populations, having a better understanding for future species management programs is crucial,' he said.
Ecologist Katarina Mikac from UOW said the method allows monitoring of vast, steep, and inaccessible forest systems, calling it 'the future of ecological research and a vital step in protecting Australia's endangered species.'
