Further Information
Volunteer on a Koala Research Project in Queensland, Australia

This study aims to determine variables related to ecosystem processes likely to influence koala ecology in the wet-dry tropics of central Queensland, Australia. Information learned from this study will contribute knowledge to a longer term study aimed at identifying abiotic and biotic factors influencing koala population occurrence and ecology in different habitat areas across central Queensland.

In summary, the current study aims to:

• Define landscape composition and characteristics within Sonoma State Forest
• Identify key tree species associated with koala diurnal and nocturnal tree selection
• Determine monthly climate and plant community characteristics influencing koala diurnal density and tree selection within respective sampling areas in the landscape
• Determine monthly climate and plant community characteristics influencing koala nocturnal tree selection within respective sampling areas in the landscape
• Quantify results of floristic sampling, to determine patterns of species associations and it relates to koala tree use throughout the landscape
• Explore the measured characteristics of tree species identified as having a strong association with koala diurnal and nocturnal use to determine if a correlation exists
• Determine koala diet through fecal pellet collection and analysis
• Identify the relationship between diet and measured monthly climate and plant community characteristics
• Develop independent linear regression and regression tree models based on measured variables to determine the best method to determine measured variables influencing 1) diurnal koala density and tree selection, and 2) nocturnal tree selection and diet selection
• Identify if diet selection relates to measured monthly climate and plant community characteristics.

Side Trips

The second week will end on Thursday, with a trip to the Whitsunday Islands starting early Friday morning, and returning late Sunday for a late start the following Monday morning.

The same will occur on the fourth Thursday, as the sampling procedures will conclude and the project leader and volunteers will head to Eungella National Park for the weekend, before volunteers depart on the Monday.

Shifts in weekend work-day activities will be adjusted accordingly to either Thursday or the following Monday, depending on group size and the general fatigue of the group.

** New items are likely to be added to the project for volunteers to contribute to. Such items may include 24-hour koala observations, in an attempt to monitor nocturnal behaviour and food choice **