Sealed Judgement

4. Threat Assessment and Identification
4.1               Habitat Loss, Degradation and Fragmentation

Quantifying and providing remedies to habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation are
difficult tasks for landscape managers. The size and structure of extant vegetation, the
occurrence of anthropogenic edges and the connectivity of the landscape are just some of
the variables that require attention as landscape modification proceeds.
The site is part of a fragmented landscape within the Noosa region. Bounded and
intersected by roads, open space, and non-native vegetation, the local area has
experienced historical disturbance impacting its vegetative integrity.
There will be some transitional loss of koala habitat and connectivity until replanting and
weed management results in a net gain at this location, and this represents a transitional
threat to koala populations. A key element of the koala management plan is the retention
and care of, and replacement where necessary of, all retained vegetation of value to
koalas on the site.

4.2               Dog Predation

Dog predation of koalas can have a significant impact on populations (Robbins et al. 2019)
and is a likely under-reported cause of population declines (unpublished data – Tyagarah
NSW).
It is probable that koalas navigating newly cleared areas of their range will spend more
time on the ground than they otherwise may, because the usual pattern of habitat and
spacing of trees will be disrupted.

4.3               Other Predators (Native and Feral)

Previous studies have identified that non-dog predators (specifically pythons) posed a
greater risk to koalas than was previously thought (Robbins et al. 2019), and owls and
eagles are also known to prey on koalas. The cause of any koala death on or near the site
will be recorded and reported (see koala welfare).

4.4               Risk of Vehicle Strike

Vehicle strike is a major cause of koala population decline (Preece 2007) particularly as
urbanisation encroaches upon natural habitat. Impacts on site (due to the road network
associated with the project) and offsite (because of traffic flow) are highly probable and will



Koala Management Plan         Version:   4     Approved by:   W Ellis     Date approved: 27 Jan 2023
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