Fears for koala casualties after bushfires - ABC Online

The Hunter Koala Preservation Society and the Native Animal Trust Fund are waiting to be given permission to do a "black walk" around the burnt-out areas of bushland to identify dead and injured animals.

Society treasurer, Loreto Gray, explained their concerns to Carol Duncan from 1233 ABC Newcastle Afternoons. (listen to attached audio)

"We can't actually get into the area to do what's called a black walk until the area has been declared safe by the Rural Fire Service and of course the police," she says.

"We're all a bit on tenterhooks here worrying, because the population of koalas in Port Stephens is rapidly on the decline, to the point that probably within eight to 10 years there won't be any left."

Loreto says the "black walks" are usually done one to two days after a bushfire and involve volunteers trying to spot dead or injured animals, which have often sought shelter in crevices or holes to try to escape the flames.

"Any wildlife carer will tell you it's a horrifying experience, you have to try and leave your emotion behind," she says.

"You have to be aware of safety procedures."

A triage area is normally set up to prioritise which animals need the most urgent treatment.

"If you can get in early enough and get treatment for the animals they can be rehabilitated, although it's certainly a long process," Loreto says.

Port Stephens mayor, Bruce MacKenzie, has claimed the ferocity of the fires was due to a lack of back-burning for many years, and blamed pressure from conservation groups and "greenies".

But Loreto says wildlife groups understand that back-burning sometimes needs to be done to save a bigger area of bush.

And she has some tips for locals and property owners who might find injured animals after the fires.

She advises not to approach the animal too quickly as it's probably in shock, which can be as deadly as the burns themselves.

You should cover it with a blanket or towel to make it feel more secure, then keep it in a very quiet place.

Then phone a rescue service, and you can contact the Hunter Koala Preservation Society on 0418 638 483.