As Australia prepares to commemorate National Threatened Species Day on September 7, the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is leading efforts to protect one of its most iconic and endangered species, the Koala.
Occurring during Save the Koala Month, this significant day serves as both a reflection of the current state of these beloved marsupials and the urgent need for their protection, while bearing a historical reminder: the extinction of the Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine) that met its demise in Hobart Zoo.
Koalas, often considered the symbol of Australia’s distinctive fauna, are now facing unprecedented threats due to habitat loss, disease, and climate change. Their endangered status emphasises the crucial importance of preserving their natural habitats, enabling them to flourish independently in the wild.
The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is proud to announce the introduction of five new symbolic wild koalas to the Koala Adoption Program. These adoptions are more than just symbolic gestures; they represent a tangible commitment to raising awareness and providing crucial support for the preservation of koala habitat. Each adoption signifies a pledge to protect the koala’s home and secure its future.
Deborah Tabart OAM, Chair of the Australian Koala Foundation, said to imagine an Australia with no wild koalas.
“National Threatened Species Day is a great opportunity for us to think deeply about the future of the Koala. It’s a sobering prospect - yet the Koala could face the same fate as the Tasmanian Tiger unless actions are taken.
“Imagine an Australia where koalas no longer flourish in their natural habitat. Imagine the impact this would have on other native species and their environment.” Tabart says.
National Threatened Species Day serves as a day to reflect on the significance of preserving the koala and its habitat. Adopting a symbolic koala is a direct way to support the AKF’s conservation efforts.
“By adopting a wild koala, you’re not only contributing to the survival of this iconic species but also investing in the health and resilience of our entire ecosystem.” Tabart says.
While adopting a symbolic koala is a great way to raise funds for the AKF, supporters can also shop online or in-store in Warialda, plant a tree, or directly donate to the AKF. For more information visit www.savethekoala.com.
ENDS
Key Facts:
- National Threatened Species Day emphasises the importance for protecting the endangered Koala
- The Australian Koala Foundation is introducing five new symbolic wild koalas to their Koala Adoption Program
- These adoptions represent a tangible commitment to raising awareness and provide crucial support for the preservation of the koala habitat
About us:
About the Australian Koala Foundation
The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is the principal non-profit, non-government organisation dedicated to the conservation and effective management of the wild koala and its habitat. AKF aims to refine and update the Koala Habitat Atlas mapping of all wild Koala habitat and to get the Koala Protection Act enacted, ensuring longevity of Koalas and their habitat.
Contact details:
pr@savethekoala.com
Office: (07) 3229 7233
Phone: 0428 104 255