Koala Spotting Guide

Spotting koalas in the wild is a magical experience!

Here are some tips to help you safely observe them and spot

signs of their presence:

Tips for Responsible Koala Watching:

Be quiet and move slowly. Do not make noises to get the koala’s attention.
Do not get close to, touch or surround the tree the koala is in.
If the koala is walking on the ground, do not frighten it or interfere with its progress, just stand back at least 10 metres away and watch quietly.
Check the koala is safe and healthy. If any concerns call a koala rescue group immediately.

WHO TO CALL

WILDCARE Noosa, Gympie and

Sunshine Coast Koala Rescue: 5527 2444

ANARRA Gympie Wildlife Hotline: 5443 4859

RSPCA: 1300 264 625

Look in the right places
Koalas spend most of their time in eucalyptus trees, often resting high in the branches during the day. Early morning or late afternoon can be the best times to spot them.
Listen for calls
Koalas can be heard making screams, squeaks, grunts, or bellows, especially during the breeding season. Listening carefully can help you locate them.
Check for signs
Look for scratch marks on tree trunks and check the ground for koala scat (poo), which can indicate nearby activity. You may also notice a strong eucalyptus smell near their resting spots.
Use binoculars
A pair of binoculars helps you see koalas without needing to get too close and risk stressing them.
Stay on trails
Stick to walking tracks or designated viewing areas to avoid damaging habitat or disturbing wildlife.
Keep pets away
Dogs and cats can stress wildlife, so leave pets at home.
Be patient
Koalas move slowly and spend much of their time sleeping. Relax, enjoy the environment, and your patience may be rewarded with a rare sighting!
Record your sightings
If you spot a koala in the Gympie Region, be sure to log your sighting in Wildwatch Gympie to help support local conservation efforts.