In the wake of Australia’s devastating wildfires, a temporary koala rehabilitation center has emerged in a school gymnasium just north of Adelaide. This initiative, spearheaded by Adelaide Koala Rescue and supported by over 150 volunteers—including veterinarians—aims to provide care for the increasing number of koalas displaced by the fires ravaging their habitats.
As reported by 10 News First Adelaide, this makeshift facility has already treated around 100 koalas, with 30 successfully rehabilitated and returned to the wild. The setup operates much like a conventional hospital, featuring specialized areas for intensive care, burn treatment, and even a section for baby koalas, complete with indoor and outdoor climbing trees for their enjoyment.
Urgent Need for Relocation
However, the clock is ticking as these volunteers and the koalas urgently need a new location before the school term starts again at the end of the month. In a particularly dire situation on Kangaroo Island, located off South Australia’s coast, it’s estimated that up to 25,000 koalas may have perished in the fires. Unfortunately, any rescued koalas cannot be treated on the mainland due to contamination concerns, as this island is home to Australia’s only chlamydia-free koala population.
Local Teenagers Step Up
Amidst the crisis, a group of local teenagers has gained attention for their efforts to rescue koalas, driving around the island to collect those in need. “Just trying to collect as many live ones as we can,” one teenager shared in a video. Fortunately, they are relocating the koalas to a neighbor’s property, who holds the necessary permit for wildlife rehabilitation.
Community and Celebrity Support
As the fires rage on, many celebrities, including Liam Hemsworth and Emma Watson, have come forward to donate millions for relief efforts. The Australian government has also responded with an $11 million funding package, and the Australian Defence Force has initiated recovery operations. For more insights into the situation, you can check out this blog post.
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Conclusion
In summary, the koala rehabilitation efforts in Adelaide demonstrate the community’s resilience and compassion in the face of disaster, while the ongoing wildfires continue to pose a significant threat to Australia’s wildlife.