A bird’s eye view of some of Logan’s most significant wildlife species has been captured with the help of modern technology.
A thermal drone survey was conducted over four nights last week (May 6 – 9) on one of Logan City Council’s largest reserves in Greenbank.
The nightly drone flights focused on spotting koalas and greater gliders but also captured images of other wildlife in the area to support Council’s conservation efforts in the region.
Numerous wildlife sightings have been recorded on the 212ha property within Spring Mountain Forest Park South, in the Flinders Karawatha Corridor, and surrounds.
Council purchased the property for conservation purposes in late 2020 – and it is seen as a significant location for koalas and greater gliders.
Mayor, Jon Raven said Council had enjoyed viewing the results of the drone surveys with koalas, greater gliders, squirrel gliders, birds and brushtail and ringtail possums found.
“They are giving us a much clearer view of koala and glider numbers in this area and boosting our understanding of their native habitat, so we can support their resilience and survival,” Mayor Raven said.
“Koalas can be tricky to see when pressed against tree trunks or in clumps of leaves high above the ground, so the drones help us to work around that.”
The Mayor said it was important Logan’s unique natural environment was protected for future generations.
“I’d like to see access to green spaces, clean air and thriving ecosystems continue for many years to come.”
“A thriving environment not only supports biodiversity but genuinely improves our quality of life,” he said.
The drone flights are funded through the annual environmental levy which covers a range of initiatives, services and projects for the Logan community.
Ripper Corporation CEO, Jason Young said drones helped create a deeper understanding of wildlife movements.
“Our drones are equipped with thermal sensors which allow them to penetrate the tree canopy and pick up images of the koalas, gliders and other wildlife via their body heat,” Mr Young said.
“They cover large areas quickly, are great in rough terrain and provide a more comprehensive view of koala populations than traditional methods.
“By using this technology and our specialised detection methodology, we can supplement information gathered on the ground by ecologists and provide a more detailed picture of the wildlife which call the Greenbank area home.”
The survey will establish a baseline about the current distribution of koalas and greater gliders and other wildlife across the property and assist with the development of future management actions for the species detected.
For more information about Council’s environmental initiatives go to logan.qld.gov.au/environment.
