Longleat Contribute to Koala Conservation Projects

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: January 4, 2021 10:20 pm

Keepers from Longleat Safari Park tend to a koala at the park

Photo Credit: Longleat Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park in the United Kingdom have announced a £50,000 donation to support the conservation of koalas which were affected by bushfires in Australia in early 2020.

Over three billion animals including one-third of the entire koala population in New South Wales fell victim to the fires.

A Longleat Safari Park keeper tends to a koala at Cleland Wildlife Park

Photo Credit: Longleat Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park is the only place in Europe where visitors can see southern koalas in their purpose built Koala Creek facility. Their family of koalas arrived as part of a long-term partnership between the South Australian Government and Cleland Wildlife Park.

Along with the contribution of funds Longleat koala keepers travelled to Australia in January 2020 and helped support the emergency rescue efforts following the fires.

During their stay they assisted with koala rescue efforts, helped monitor and treat surviving koalas and supported work with burn victims at Cleland Wildlife Park.

A Longleat Safari Park keeper tends to a koala at Cleland Wildlife Park

Photo Credit: Longleat Safari Park

“This year has been an incredibly challenging one for all of us, however as the anniversary of the bushfires approaches, we believe it is hugely important to honour our ongoing commitment to support and the vital work being undertaken in Australia to help rescue and protect these iconic and unique marsupials,” said Ceawlin, Lord Bath.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the thousands of visitors to Longleat who have generously contributed to this appeal throughout 2020.”

“With all the many challenges we’re currently facing it is crucial we are still able to show our support for these vitally important conservation efforts.”

“The combined effects of the bushfires and the impact of diseases and loss of habitat is pushing koala populations across Australia to the brink of extinction.

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Visitors to Longleat Safari Park helped with the funding through a donation of £1 as part of their booking fees. A JustGiving page was also established which added £28,000 to the appeal.

“The generosity of our visitors will have a direct impact on helping these wonderful animals and is areal cause for celebration in what has been a desperately difficult year,” he added.