Sick or Injured Koalas
Koalas in our region are particularly vunerable tp disease.
They may also show other signs of poor health or injury.
CHLAMYDIA-RELATED ILLNESS
You might notice signs such as:
Conjunctivitis – Swollen, weepy or crusty eyes; can lead to blindness if untreated. Can affectone or both eyes.
Cystitis – A urinary infection causing a wet, brown-stained rump.
OTHER SIGNS OF ILLNESS OR INJURY
The following sections outlined the key behaviours and physical signs that indicate a koala may need help.
Sitting on the ground
Healthy: Only on the ground briefly; moves away if approached.
Needs Help: Sitting on the ground, often at the base of a tree, for a long time period; can be curled up and unreponsive.
Staying in One Tree
🟢 Healthy: Alert, ears up, slightly round belly; clean nose and mouth.
🔴Needs Help: Remaining in the same tree for more than two days; looks weak, thin, drooling, or has scratches.
Difficulty Moving or Climbing
🟢 Healthy: Moves confidently; climbs easily.
🔴Needs Help: Limping, stumbling, circling, falling or hesitation while climbing.
Body condition and coat
🟢 Healthy: Clean white rump; thick, dense grey fur; overall well-rounded appearance.
🔴Needs Help: Thin or underweight apperance, skinny legs, visible hip bones. Coat dull, rough or matted.
If you see a koala, please pause, observe it carefully and check it is afe and healthy.
If you notice any indicators of illness or injuy, please report promptly to your local rescue group – early action can give the koala the best chance of recovery.
WHO TO CALL
WILDCARE Noosa, Gympie and Sunshine Coast Koala Rescue: 5527 2444
ANARRA Gympie Wildlife Hotline: 5443 4859
RSPCA: 1300 264 625
