Is it Fine to Hold and Cuddle a Koala? Are there Any Risks?
While cuddling a koala might seem like an adorable experience, it's actually NOT RECOMMENDED and even ILLEGAL in some parts of Australia. Here's why:
Stressful for the Koala
Koalas are wild animals and prefer spending their time high up in eucalyptus trees. Holding them can be stressful and disrupt their routine.
Potential for Injuries
Though docile, koalas can feel threatened when held and might scratch or bite.
Health Risks
Koalas carry a strain of chlamydia that can be transmitted to humans.
However, if you're keen on getting up close to a koala, there are sanctuaries and reputable zoos in some parts of Australia (Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia) that offer supervised encounters. These places prioritize the koala's well-being and ensure a safe and positive experience for both visitors and animals.
Sanctuaries in Australia That Allow Koala Holding
While koala holding is no longer offered at many sanctuaries due to prioritizing the koala's well-being, some sanctuaries in Australia offer supervised encounters where you can get up close and even touch the koalas. Here are two of them:
i) Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane
This is the world's first and largest koala sanctuary and offers a close encounter with the koalas. You can learn about these adorable marsupials and even have your photo taken with one, but you won't be able to hold them.
Know more about the Koala Holding Activity at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane
ii) Moonlit Sanctuary, Mornington Peninsula
This sanctuary offers a special koala encounter where you can touch and cuddle a koala for a brief period under the supervision of keepers. This is a great opportunity to learn more about koalas and their conservation.
Remember, these encounters are meant to be educational and a way to connect with these amazing creatures. Always follow the instructions of the keepers to ensure a safe and positive experience for both you and the koala.
