This winter, Gold Coasters are being urged to slow down on our roads and keep a look out to help protect native animals.
As well as a longer dusk and dawn, koalas and other native animals have their breeding seasons in late-winter to summer and during this time are more mobile, so drivers are being asked to be extra vigilant for wildlife.
"Our native animals are important residents of the Gold Coast and we need to give them a helping hand," Mayor Tom Tate said.
"Vehicle strikes are among the greatest threats to koalas and other native animals, so we ask everyone to take extra care by slowing down, being vigilant, and giving the wildlife the space they need.
"Through the Our Natural City Strategy 2032, we are committed to protecting the natural beauty of the City and our koalas and other native animals are a vital part of that."
The City has a number of road management and habitat initiatives to help protect native animals including:
- Installing flashing wildlife signs
- Installing fauna fencing
- Buying and protecting land for native animal habitat
- Providing Wildcare with an animal ambulance
- Restoring native habitat through tree planting
During their breeding season, koalas and other native animals are more mobile, which increases the chance they will cross a road or venture into areas close to humans and pets.
Echidnas are among the first native animals to begin their breeding season and can be seen from midwinter moving about in "echidna trains", making them vulnerable to vehicle strike.
Motorists and pedestrians should call Wildcare on 07 5527 2444 if they see an animal injured or in distress. Deceased animals can be reported to the City on 07 5667 5976.
Wildcare will make sure injured animals are transported safely to places like Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, where they will be treated, rehabilitated and released back into the wild.
