Australian researchers estimated, for the first time, the number of two endangered mammals that inhabit the Illawarra Range in the state of New South Wales: the koala and the southern greater glider (southern greater glider).
Using drones equipped with thermal cameras, the research team conducted surveys at 47 sites in the region, identifying 56 koalas and 127 gliders across a total area of 1,175 hectares.
Based on these data, the researchers calculated that the average density of koalas in the area is 0.13 individuals per hectare, while the density of gliders is slightly higher, reaching 0.17 individuals per hectare.
The authors of the study underline that this information is essential to monitor the future evolution of the populations of these threatened species, allowing for the assessment of factors such as habitat loss, wildfires, and climate change.
