Saving Australia’s Beloved Species

A major conservation project led by Sydney’s Taronga Zoo is giving Australia’s iconic wildlife a powerful boost by rewilding habitats for koalas and platypuses. The initiative focuses on restoring and expanding natural environments that these species rely on, including planting thousands of native trees and improving waterways so platypuses have cleaner, deeper pools and koalas have better food and shelter. Scientists and conservationists involved say the work will not only help protect these animals from threats like habitat loss, bushfires and climate change, but also support broader ecosystem recovery by creating connected, healthy landscapes where wildlife can thrive. By combining scientific research, on-the-ground habitat regeneration, and community involvement, the project represents a hopeful, proactive step toward securing a better future for two of Australia’s most beloved species.

Image via Taronga Zoo

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