#Koalas are almost #extinct: you can #help

This Proposed Refuge Could Help Keep the Koala from Going Fully Extinct

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Dear friends, If you haven't already heard, the koala is hanging on by a thread. The marsupial's population has been declining for decades, but the recent drought and fires in the Australian states of Queensland and New South Wales have put even more pressure on the species. Some experts have gone so far as to say that koalas are functionally extinct in much of their historic region. Luckily, a new project could help change that. Sign in support of a protected koala habitat. Recently, the Koala Advisory Council proposed setting up "Koala Priority Areas" around Southeast Queensland. The proposal suggests setting aside more than 570,000 hectares where the animals could move freely without having to go through developed areas. This is vital as koalas are often killed by cars when they attempt to cross busy roads. As you have no doubt read in previous petitions, we are coming dangerously close to the point of no return when it comes to saving the koala. In Southeast Queensland alone, the koala population has plummeted by as much as 80% in the last two decades. It's no wonder they've been dying out: 75% of their habitat has been destroyed. These are almost irreversible numbers. But if we act fast, we could turn things around for one of Australia's most beloved animals. The Koala Advisory Council proposal will go to a public comment period, and then it will be up to Queensland officials to make it a reality. We only have so much time to speak out — please sign the petition now! Thank you,   Kelsey B. The Care2 Petitions Team P.S. Koalas are all but extinct, but this project could help. Sign the petition.