Submitted by Sydney Berkey on the 2020 winter session program in Australia sponsored by the Department of English…
Throughout my whole encounter, Luca, my favorite koala featured below, didn’t stop eating eucalyptus; Luca’s ranger explained to our group that these koalas eat anywhere between 200 to 500 grams of leaves a day. In order to feed ONLY seven koalas, they need leaves from about 1,000 trees a week! The sanctuaries go to elaborate lengths to ensure their koalas are fed. They decrease the amount of leaves they have to buy by growing eucalyptus trees of their own. Not only did it blow my mind that these tiny animals eat so much, but it also enlightened me to the growing problem here in Australia. As the bush fires continue to run rampant throughout the country, these koalas, as well as many other species, are not only getting physically hurt, but their habitats and food sources are also being destroyed. This species, deemed functionally extinct, is fighting for its survival and has done so with human help. Fundraising money has gone to the installation of drinking stations and medical help in burnt areas and the donation of knitted blankets and pouches have given affected animals temporary homes. It’s astonishing to see how the Australian community has come together to help fight the fires either through physical help, monetary donations, prayers, and/or spreading awareness to help, not only the koalas and their sanctuaries, but the country overall as well.