BACK TO NATURE - Growing threats to koalas

Peanut the koala joey highlights growing threats to koalas as public urged to take action.

At just 1.65kg (3.64 pounds), koala joey Peanut has already overcome incredible odds. After he and his mother were attacked by a dog, Peanut was admitted to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, where he received around-the-clock care from the dedicated veterinary team.

Domestic animal attacks, particularly dog attacks, remain a frequent and devastating cause of injury to Australian wildlife. Dr Ludo Valenza, Hospital Manager and Wildlife Veterinarian at Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, said koalas are especially vulnerable, with many arriving in critical condition each year.

"Every year we treat a high number of wildlife patients injured in dog attacks at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital," said Dr Ludo.

Peanut sustained injuries during the ordeal and required comprehensive veterinary treatment from the hospital's highly specialised team.

"Peanut required immediate veterinary care and is now being looked after by our amazing veterinary team 24 hours a day," said Dr Ludo.

Following his treatment at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, Peanut is continuing his recovery with a specialised wildlife carer, receiving the expert care, nutrition, and rehabilitation he needs while undergoing regular health checks at the Wildlife Hospital. Once he is old enough, Peanut will be released into the wild. 

Every month, more than 40 koalas are admitted to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, with many cases linked to human activity and domestic animal encounters. Dr. Valenza said simple actions from the community can make a significant difference in protecting Australia's iconic species.

"Slowing down on our roads during dawn and dusk when wildlife are the most active, keeping your pets inside at night and planting native trees in your backyard are all simple ways you can play your part in saving our native wildlife," said Dr. Valenza.

The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, helping sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. 

After opening its doors in 2004, the Wildlife Hospital has treated more than 161,000 patients, including over 12,000 koalas. Each animal cared for is a continuation of Steve Irwin’s vision, an enduring legacy built on compassion, conservation, and a lifelong goal of protecting wildlife and the wild places they call home.

To find out more about this work and donate, visit wildlifewarriors.org.au.