Critical reason behind unusual sight in Aussie trees: 'Frontline defence'

If you've recently visited a national park in southeast Queensland, you might have spotted some unusual black bands wrapped around certain trees. Far from being a quirky decoration, these bands play a vital role in protecting one of Australia's most iconic and vulnerable animals — the koala.
Speaking to Yahoo News, a spokesperson from Queensland's Department of Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation explained the significance of these tree bands at David Fleay Wildlife Park.
"[We] put black bands around selected trees to protect the koalas and prevent them from climbing any further," the spokesperson said. "This biosecurity measure is crucial for safeguarding both captive and wild koalas from spreading diseases. It also helps prevent unplanned breeding and injury caused by fighting, which can threaten already fragile populations."
Koalas face increasing threats across Australia, including habitat loss, disease, and climate impacts. Protecting the koalas at David Fleay Wildlife Park means ensuring these precious animals stay safe, healthy, and contained — a small but vital piece of the broader effort to conserve koalas wherever they still survive. Park ranger Sarah elaborated further.
"These tree guards aren't just about keeping animals in or out," she said. "They're a frontline defence to protect our koalas from wild populations carrying diseases like Chlamydia, which is unfortunately widespread in southeast Queensland. Preventing contact between healthy captive koalas and sick wild ones helps stop the spread of this debilitating illness."
The tree guards work by creating a physical barrier that koalas cannot grip or climb across. Typically made from smooth or slippery materials like plastic or metal, the bands are wrapped tightly around the trunk, making it impossible for koalas to gain traction with their claws.
Since koalas rely on rough bark and a strong grip to scale trees, the smooth surface of the guard effectively blocks their ascent or descent. This not only prevents captive koalas from climbing out of their enclosures but also stops wild or potentially diseased koalas from climbing in, helping to maintain a healthy, controlled environment.
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With three koalas living in the park as ambassadors for their species, the black bands help ensure these special residents don't wander beyond their safe enclosure or come into contact with unfamiliar or aggressive koalas. "It's also about preventing them from leaving the enclosure and risking injury or stress," Ranger Sarah explained.
The use of black bands is a simple but effective tool employed by wildlife parks and councils across Australia, helping to keep climbing animals like possums and koalas safe, contained, and protected.
So next time you see these bands on trees, remember they're more than just markings, they're a vital symbol of the ongoing commitment to protect and preserve our beloved koalas for generations to come.
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