The very cute Koala is Australia's most lovable native animal and is known around the world. Koalas depend on a limited range of Eucalyptus trees for their food.
Not only has urban expansion destroyed an increasing amount of their natural habitat but the increased spread and intensity of bushfires due to climate change has decimated much of the population.
Three other unique animals also suffer the threats of change in their natural habitats. The cute - but not so cuddly - wombat lives in burrows and some may have escaped the bushfires.
The only two egg laying mammals - monotromes - are the curious platypus and our echidna have faced survival challenges. Platypus have burrows in banks of streams but these become threatened by extended droughts and floods. Echidnas can dig as well but are mainly above ground and under threat from fires.
A number of volunteer groups and "local heros" are concerned for these creatures and rely on donations for their work.
Friends of the Koala – Northern NSW Coast
Website: www.friendsofthekoala.org/fok/
Koala Conservation Australia Inc.
Website: www.koalahospital.org.au
Koalas In Care – Greater Taree, Great Lakes & Gloucester
Website: www.koalasincare.org.au
Port Stephens Koalas
Website: http://www.portstephenskoalas.com.au
Wildlife Carers Network Central West Inc
Website: http://www.wildlifecarers.org.au
Native Animal Rescue Group (NARG) – Braidwood
Contact Number: 02 4846 1900
Wombat Care Bundanoon
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Wombat-Care-Bundanoon-358178921460596
Contact our Local Hero John at
Link to the ABC Documentary featuring John
Wild Australia - After the Fires
Link to an excellent National Geographic Article
National Geographic Article re Marsupials after the Fires