Leafers and leaves needed for local koalas

Sparrow the koala was recently released and is recovering under the watchful eye of Koala Hospital staff. Photo: FACEBOOK

FRIENDS of the Koala is calling for more leaf collectors and leaf donations to help care for koalas in recovery and rehabilitation.

The koalas at the Northern Rivers Koala Hospital and Koala Care Centre consume between 300 and 500 grams of leaf each day from various eucalypt leaves and a few other related tree species.

In the Northern Rivers region, primary food sources include Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) and Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta).

Food is produced by the Friends of the Koalas seven food tree plantations, as well as some private plantations, road reserves and private landholder properties.

There is a shortage of Forest Red Gum and Tallowwood in particular, and the Friends of the Koala is calling on Northern Rivers locals who may have these trees that the group could harvest.

Leaf harvesters are also needed to collect leaves for the koalas in rehabilitation.

Anyone over 18 with reasonable fitness can be a leafer.

Volunteers come from all walks of life and have the opportunity to find purpose and learn new skills.

For more information call the Leafing Coordinator Fiona Dawson on 0432 848 546, or visit friendsofthekoala.org/volunteer