If you find an injured, sick or distressed koala it is important that you contact a licensed wildlife carer as soon as possible.
Do not attempt to touch or move the koala until you have received advice from a koala wildlife professional.
Despite their cute appearance, koalas are wild animals and can be dangerous when approached or if you try to catch or handle one.
Sick, injured or distressed koalas
If a koala's habitat has been severely impacted by fire, or if you find a koala on the ground at the base of a tree or it is not moving, then it may be sick or injured.
Signs of a sick koala can include infected or inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis), a wet and dirty bottom (cystitis) and sitting at the base of a tree for an extended period of time.
Call a licensed wildlife rescue and rehabilitation provider for advice as soon as possible. These providers are permitted to take distressed or injured koalas into care.
Find a licensed wildlife carer
Use the IFAW Wildlife Rescue App to quickly find the closest licensed carer to contact.
The NSW National Wildlife Council can help you locate a licensed wildlife carer in your local area.
You can also call the WIRES Rescue Line on 1300 094 737.
Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation resources
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