Koala Breeding Season: New Life and New Dangers

As the weather warms and spring approaches, an important time begins in the Australian bush: koala breeding season. Between July and February (sometimes even April), male koalas start calling out with their deep, bellowing grunts, hoping to attract a mate. It's a season of activity, movement, and opportunity for new life—but for wild koalas, it also comes with significant risks. 

Why the Breeding Season Is So Risky for Koalas 

During breeding season, koalas become more mobile and travel further in search of mates. Males may roam into unfamiliar territory (they would generally stick within their home range, but utilise more of the space) and females may be pursued by multiple suitors. This increase in movement brings koalas into contact with a range of human-made hazards that they might otherwise avoid. 

Some of the main dangers during breeding season include: 

Vehicle Strikes 

As koalas cross roads more frequently, especially at dawn and dusk, the chance of being hit by a car rises sharply. Wildlife carers often report a spike in call-outs for road trauma during these months. Even with road signage, speed reductions, and awareness campaigns, vehicle collisions remain one of the leading causes of injury and death for koalas during the breeding season. 

Dog Attacks 

Koalas are often forced to move along the ground to reach new trees or breeding areas, which increases their exposure to domestic dogs—particularly in suburban and semi-rural areas. Dog attacks are often fatal or result in injuries that require intensive veterinary care. Keeping dogs secured at night and using koala-safe fencing can make a big difference. You can also ‘koala proof’ yards by providing escape routes. 

Habitat Fragmentation 

Urban development and land clearing have created patchy habitats where koalas must travel long distances across open ground or through backyards to reach suitable mates or food trees. These movements increase stress, energy expenditure, and the chance of encountering danger. 

Chlamydia Spread 

Breeding season also sees an increase in the transmission of chlamydia, a common and devastating disease among koalas. It can lead to infertility, blindness, and even death if left untreated. Koalas weakened by disease are less able to cope with the physical demands and threats of the breeding season. 

Stress and Injury from Conflict 

Male koalas can be aggressive during mating season. Fights between rival males can result in serious injuries. Females can also suffer stress-related injuries or trauma from forced mating attempts. 

What Can You Do to Help Koalas During Breeding Season? 

Drive cautiously in known koala areas, especially at night. Slow down and stay alert for movement on the road. 

Keep dogs indoors or securely contained at night. If you live in a koala area, consider koala-friendly fencing solutions. 

Report sick or injured koalas to your local wildlife rescue service or Koala Conservation Australia Hospital on 6584 1522. 

Protect habitat wherever possible. Even a few healthy eucalyptus trees in a backyard can provide vital food or shelter. 

Support conservation work. Donations, volunteering, or even just spreading awareness can help support ongoing research and rescue efforts. 

A Time to Protect as Well as Celebrate 

Koala breeding season brings the hope of new joeys and strengthens wild populations—but only if we work to reduce the risks koalas face during this vulnerable time. With greater awareness and community action, we can help make breeding season safer for one of Australia’s most iconic species. 

If you spot a koala on the move this season, remember: they’re not just wandering aimlessly. They’re searching for connection, for survival, and for the future of their kind.