Koalas on the move as breeding season continues

DRIVERS in Byron Shire are being urged to take extra care on the roads during koala breeding season, which runs from June to December.

Byron Council biodiversity officer Liz Caddick said koalas were more active at this time of year as they searched for mates.

“What we see at this time of year are koalas, especially males, really covering some ground at night in their search for females and this means they are often crossing roads and can be hit by cars,” Caddick said.

“We are so fortunate to have koalas in our area and it is very sad when these precious animals are hit by cars.

“Council, in collaboration with community groups such as Friends of the Koala and Bangalow Koalas, is always looking for ways to alert drivers about koalas and the need to take extra care on roads.”

A Transport for NSW study in 2022 found six of the state’s 30 koala vehicle-strike hotspots were in Byron Shire.

Measures introduced by council include a solar lighting tower on Broken Head Road, speed-activated warning signs near Ballina, koala zones on Coolamon Scenic Drive and Coorabell Road, and new lights and electronic signs on Hinterland Way near Bangalow.

People who see a sick or injured koala can call Friends of the Koala on 02 6622 1233.