In 2022, 14 koalas were found in a survey of Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden, Tall Gums Reserves and five surrounding properties (total of 176ha). This survey was a joint project between University of Sunshine Coast (USC), Sunshine Coast Council and Friends of the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens. The survey consisted of two parts, an evening thermal drone survey and koala scat collection and analysis. Both components were carried out by the Detection Dogs for Conservation team at USC.
Koala research
Watch this video to find out more about how heat-seeking drones and detector dogs are being used in koala research at the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden.
Read the report prepared by the University of Sunshine Coast based on the koala survey conducted at the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden in March/April 2022.
Listen Sarah Howells (ABC local radio) interview with the USC team following the koala survey.
Read the Drones and Dogs news article for more information on the survey.
