Monitoring along the M1

Thermal Drone Surveys for Koala Population

Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) are an iconic yet endangered Australian species. Their survival has been increasingly threatened by habitat fragmentation caused by urbanisation and infrastructure, including major roadways like the Pacific Motorway (M1) on the Gold Coast.

Maintaining and monitoring koala corridors is essential for their long-term conservation. 

Map of Australia with Queensland shaded in and focus on Gold Coast

Through this project, Watergum is conducting drone surveys to monitor koala populations and understand their movements in bushland, wildlife crossing zones, and corridor areas near the M1.

Using Watergum’s advanced Matrice 300 drone equipped with a thermal camera, these surveys will provide critical insights into koala distribution and support the conservation of this vital species. 

Thank you to our project sponsors and collaborators