Koalas in the shire are getting a helping hand.
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Wingecarribee Shire Council's Southern Highlands Koala Conservation Project is working with wildlife carers to identify fresh food for injured koalas.
Council's Environment Officer Margot Law said that koalas in care need fresh leaves daily to support their recovery.
"It can take up to six fresh tips of eucalyptus branches to support one koala each day, and they only want the tastiest leaves" she said.
Council has developed an online Koala Feed Tree Locator for community members to nominate eucalyptus trees for leaf donation. Trees can be on private property, road reserves or council land.
"The online database is a practical way for residents to help Southern Highlands koalas," said Margot.
"Our aim is to identify an adequate supply of food sources so carers can focus on the rehabilitation of injured koalas.
"At the same this project will ensure that we're picking leaves from a variety of trees." she said.
The Koala Feed Tree Locator is a citizen science opportunity which means you don't have to be an expert to participate. Community members are encouraged to include photos with their submission to help identify the species.
When koala carers need fresh leaves the Southern Highlands Koala Conservation Project will be in touch to access private property, if required.
To learn more or get involved visit www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/koalas or contact Wingecarribee Shire Council on phone 4868 0888.
