The annual Bongil Bongil citizen science survey is the ultimate chance to see why koalas are putting Coffs Harbour on the map.
Running for an incredible 13 years, the community-based koala survey is on again next month and everyone is invited to take part.
The surveys monitor koala presence and health year to year, using a scientifically valid and consistent methodology.
The data collected has helped inform discussions around the proposed Great Koala National Park near Coffs Harbour, which will protect critical koala populations and more than 100 threatened species.
The proposed park will ultimately include this population as one of the koala strongholds for NSW.
Many other native animals such as possums, gliders, micro bats, owls, snakes, and other nocturnal wildlife have also been encountered during the nighttime wildlife surveys through the tall trees and rainforests.
This long-running and popular citizen science program will begin on Thursday night, 9 October, and run every fourth night until 25 October.
Volunteers are required to conduct the 2-hour surveys in small teams by walking 3 kilometres each night along fire trails, beginning just after dark. Surveys are held every fourth night, with a total of 5 nights’ work over 17 days.
A short information and training session is mandatory for all prospective new volunteers on Monday 21 September at Coffs Harbour Jetty office.
Those interested in participating in the program can contact the Coffs Coast office at [email protected]
