In the Redlands, koalas are a much-loved part of our natural landscape. Sadly, one of the biggest threats to their survival is something we encounter every day — our roads. Each year, many koalas are injured or killed while crossing busy streets, especially during dawn and dusk when they are most active.
As our communities continue to grow, the overlap between human activity and koala habitat grows too. Roads cut through their natural range, forcing koalas to navigate traffic to find food, shelter, and mates. This makes road safety one of the most urgent issues for koala conservation in our region.
The good news? Drivers can make a big difference. By being more aware and adjusting how we drive in known koala areas, we can help prevent needless injuries and deaths. Here are some simple but powerful ways you can help.
Slow Down in Koala Zones
You’ll often see koala crossing signs in the Redlands. These are not just decoration — they mark areas where koalas are known to move across roads. Reducing your speed gives you more time to spot a koala and stop safely. Even a few kilometres slower can be the difference between life and death for an animal crossing the road.
Be Alert at Dawn and Dusk
Koalas are most active during the early morning and evening hours. This means your risk of encountering one on the road is higher around dawn and dusk. Dim light, glare, and shadows can make them harder to see, so keep a close watch on the sides of the road.
If you’re driving at these times in koala habitat, remind yourself to stay extra alert. Scanning ahead and watching the tree line can help you spot movement before a koala reaches the road.
Give Koalas Space
If you see a koala attempting to cross, never try to herd or scare it across the road. Instead, stop safely, give it space, and allow it to move at its own pace. Honking or flashing lights may cause stress and confusion, putting the koala at even greater risk.
Remember: a calm, unhurried koala is much safer than one that feels chased or panicked.
Report Koalas on or Near Roads
If you see a koala lingering near the road, please call our 24/7 hotline immediately. Reporting sightings helps us keep track of movement patterns, rescue injured animals quickly, and reduce further risks.
Even if the koala appears unharmed, your report could make a vital difference. Early intervention can prevent tragedy and ensure the koala gets the help it needs.
Together, We Can Save Lives
Every driver in the Redlands has a role to play in protecting koalas. By slowing down, staying alert, and reporting sightings, you’re not just avoiding accidents — you’re contributing to the survival of one of Australia’s most iconic animals.
Our team of volunteers sees the heartbreaking reality of road accidents far too often. But with your help, we can change the story. Small actions behind the wheel add up to big results for koala conservation.
Want to do more? Share these road safety tips with family and friends, and encourage others to stay koala-aware on the roads. Together, we can make Redlands a safer place for both people and wildlife.
Leave a Reply