Koalas on Australian islands: first database and exploration

Led by Professor Salit Kark, students and colleagues at UQ's School of the Environment have completed the first comprehensive studies of fire history and koala populations across Australia’s 9,300 islands, revealing both opportunities and challenges for conservation.

The research found that many islands experience frequent and intense fires, which can threaten endangered species and undermine islands’ role as biodiversity refuges.

A companion study created the first database of koala populations across all Australian islands, creating a novel database and identifying 37 islands with historical koala records and ~15 with current populations of native and introduced island koalas.

The research team found island koalas face threats on islands, including habitat loss, fire, disease and over-browsing.

Together, the studies provide a roadmap for coordinated, island-focused conservation strategies to better protect Australia’s unique wildlife.

Researcher