A GUNNEDAH trial of water stations for koalas has come up with surprising results.
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University of Sydney researcher Dr Valentina Mella was approached by Gunnedah landowner and farmer Robert Frend who said he believed lack of available water was contributing to a decline in koala numbers.
Dr Mella is leading a team of researchers from the University of Sydney in a water supplementation study on Mr Frend’s property.
Mr Frend designed water stations called Blinky Drinkers which were set up on the property with cameras to monitor their use.
“Much to the team’s surprise, koalas regularly and extensively used the water stations in winter, even after rain,” Dr Mella said. “This is a staggering result and challenges the common belief that koalas do not need to drink free water...”
The study is continuing over summer. Landowners interested in being part of an extended program can contact Dr Mella at valentina.mella@sydney.edu.au