Five years after the catastrophic Black Summer bushfires of 2019-2020, which scorched millions of hectares and resulted in the loss of approximately three billion animals, including significant numbers of koalas, there are encouraging signs of recovery among koala populations in Australia.

Conservation efforts and natural regeneration of habitats have contributed to this positive development, offering hope for the future of this iconic species. 

In regions severely affected by the fires, such as southern New South Wales, dedicated wildlife sanctuaries have played a pivotal role in supporting koala rehabilitation and monitoring.

For instance, the Two Thumbs Wildlife Trust, which suffered extensive damage during the fires, has since been restored and now reports a return of koalas to the area. Advanced technologies, including thermal imaging drones, have been instrumental in tracking and assessing koala numbers, facilitating more effective conservation strategies.

Despite these promising signs, conservationists emphasize the need for ongoing habitat protection and restoration to ensure the long-term survival of koalas, particularly in the face of challenges posed by climate change and habitat fragmentation. 

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/27/world/video/koalas-bushfires-australia-c2e