Synopsis:
Approaching their western most limit of distribution, koalas have historically been recorded in the Lower Balonne region of the Murray-Darling Basin (St George Qld – Brewarrina NSW), with 32 reported sightings in 55 years (1960-2015). The last reported sighting was in 2015. Throughout the past 75 years since the first reported sighting (Atlas of Living Australia), the region has experienced massive changes in landuse, and climate extremes (floods and droughts). Are there any koala’s left in the Lower Balonne and what are their chances under climate change and water resource development?
Aims:
- To sample for koala populations in the Lower Balonne
- Identify habitat types and use
- Review historical records for koalas in the region
- Review historical changes in the region that may have impacted on koalas
- Assess the impacts of ongoing water resource development and climate change on existing populations.
Student benefits:
· Gain skills in piloting drones
- Learn field skills for remote area fieldwork
- Perform field-based drone surveys
- Gain skills in GIS, data analysis and interpretation.
- Work with stakeholders
Get involved
To learn more about this project, contact Dr. Kate Brandis
T:+61 2 9065 9886