Browse collection - feeding koalas in care

A vital part of our work at Southern Koala and Echidna Rescue is Browse Collection. This involves the collection of native eucalyptus branches, so we can feed the sick and injured animals in our care. However, we can’t collect these branches without having the correct equipment, varying from short secateurs to long pole snips. Luckily for us, SKER received a generous donation of cutting equipment from Gardena, making this important role easier, safer, and more efficient!

Thanks to Gardena for supporting us with tools to help make this job easier

We collect around 10 different eucalyptus species from up to 60 different locations around southern Adelaide. Often from properties and farms whom have reached out to us with the offer of cutting some branches from their property. Identifying the right species is an important part of the process, as not all native plants are suitable, and koalas are very picky eaters!

The most common species we collect are River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis), SA Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon), and Platypus/Coastal Moort (Eucalyptus platypus), amongst many more. The best branches are within 3 metres reach, straight, with many leaves, and new shoots showing as bright green tips on the ends. If you think you have some suitable trees on your property please get in touch with us.

If browse collection is a role that interests you, we are always looking for new volunteers. It’s one of our bigger roles and a great way to do some hands on work for our native wildlife, we would love to hear from you, apply HERE

If you have a property with an abundance of Eucalyptus that you think may be suitable and are happy for us to attend site to harvest Koala Browse please also reach out we would love to chat to you.

Another happy recipient of our Browse teams hard work